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Take & Talk Pics

Take & Talk Pics is a photography based podcast and blog where the host, Rob Krueger, shares information every Monday, interviews a new working professional photographer each Wednesday and Friday. This full blown photography podcast and blog is full of amazing content 3 days a week. Photo World, the listening community, can expect a fresh new show every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Rob will use Take & Talk Pics as a better way of learning photography and more importantly the business of photography. He asks nearly identical questions to every photographer being interviewed each Wednesday and Friday. The great thing about this continuity is; Photo World will know exactly what to expect from Take & Talk Pics but the answers are constantly changing from one professional to the next. Rob believes this is the best way to learn. It begins to become an educational habit. Aside from the weekly interviews, Rob has the Monday Message. This began in June 2015 and continues today. Whether Rob is recalling a quote, suggesting a book, speaking about his own experiences, or just getting Photo World motivated to CRUSH their photography business; He delivers a unique perspective on a range of topics to keep us interested in all the aspects of photography and running a small business.
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Now displaying: February, 2016
Feb 29, 2016

Kitchen Remodeling

Why in the world would I ever need to mention Kitchen Remodeling on a photography and business podcast? Photo World if you have been listening for a while you know I find inspiration in the strangest of places; if you are new to Take & Talk Pics then you will soon see my mind doesn't operate on the same wavelengths as most people. I don't always look for a silver lining but I almost always look out for something to learn. This time around I learned by snapping a pic on my phone of a simple Kitchen Remodeling project that was needed. It was time to update the old kitchen from 1970 and bring it up to 2016. I don't have a picture of it as finished because like our businesses these things take time and hard work. The time is being spent and the work is getting done. I sound like a broken record
when I say do the work but the truth is that's all anyone really needs to know when it comes to wanting something more in their own business or even in life. Get out there Photo World and remodel your business and while you do it give this episode a listen to have some information and inspiration ringing in your ears while you get the work done.

Happy Shooting!

 

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Feb 26, 2016

Whats In My Bag part 3

When I ask other photographers what is their go to lens and they bring up the divine 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom lens my heart sings in compliance. I LOVE this lens. Nikon, Canon, Olympus, Sony, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina (f4) all* make a 70-200mm f/2.8. Tokina makes an f4 version but still there are many options out there for the photographer looking for an amazing focal length to add to their arsenal. The Nikon AF-S Nikkor
70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II is my photo gear pride and joy and I almost never go to a job without it. In fact you can often find me at a job with only this lens. Sadly I do not use this lens the most, that credit goes to my trusty Nikon AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8G ED lens. 

One aesthetic detail about the 70-200mm that I love is the IF or Internal Focusing system. When you zoom the lens or focus the lens groups of glass within the barrel move forward and aft while the front element stays fixed and therefore you have no risk of dust building up on the, would-be, extended portion of the lens. Great functionality, solid build, gorgeous results from this tack sharp lens.

For an in-depth review of the specs and tech of this lens check out: kenrockwell.com/nikon/70-200mm

nikonusa.com

Happy Shooting!

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Feb 24, 2016

JPEG vs RAW

JPEG (Joint Photographic Expert Group) is the most common way of storing and transmitting photos.

A JPEG is 1/8 the storage space of a RAW image counterpart – This was the best I could find in much research but in my own experience I find the JPEGs are 1/3 or ½ the disk space.

Represented numbers – the average is found within an 8x8 pixel space, AVERAGE+3cos(x)-10sin(x) will give the numeric ingurgitation with the formula of only 3 values in lieu of the original 8x8 pixel average. The end points on this may shift in an alternate numeric value and is solved by variable difference and its meeting of the next grouping.

Mentions: 3 and -10 come from Greg Thatcher Fourier theory. Randell Heyman

To understand the mathematical formula it doesn’t take more than a High School level Trigonometry class. Luckily Photo World we don’t need to know why this works but more so how it works and I will break this down in a very simplified way.

RAW doesn’t stand for anything! Yay for simple photographers not needed to know things! Well RAW refers to the same term for things like meat. RAW is meaning undone or not yet produced. A RAW file is not a finished product like say… a JPEG.

Happy Shooting!

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Feb 22, 2016

“If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.” Martin Luther King Jr.

I created an entire episode based on this quote. I was (still am) inspired by the profoundness of these words and the obvious approach to taking on the unknown. I do need to correct myself though… This quote is from Dr. King; however, modified from Napoleon Hill’s quote: “If you cannot do great things, you can do small things in a great way.”

Napoleon Hill is one of my favorite writers and I do want to give credit to his words because they hold just as true in this episode. However I chose to highlight the quote of Martin Luther King Jr. “I” is all the more personal and it feels individualized and private. Running our businesses or even building a business, while we may have others involved or strong support systems, is a very personal matter. No one else would offer the care and attention we do to our own businesses.

Take a step back and look at the big picture. Now spend the next 10 minutes listening to this episode today on Great Things, and then tell me what you see. It is private and personal, but it is the first of many you will F.O.C.U.S. your attention on.

Happy Shooting!

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Feb 19, 2016

Whats In My Bag part 2

On this continuation on what's in my bag I talk about one lens that I seem to use more than the rest. It isn't my favorite lens that I own but it does see the majority of my subjects. I shoot on Full Frame or FX cameras most of the time and having the Nikon AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8G ED lens with the wide 24mm to grab an entire room for an event or the 70mm to be a bit more reach than my own standard field of view so I can hang back but still catch more intimate moments during a wedding; this lens has it all... Or at least, has most of what I need/want in a lens. Prime lenses are choice for sharpness but this zoom is beautiful! I can use it at f/2.8 without fear that the image will be tac sharp and the sweet spot aperture (listen to the episode *wink*) is out of this world. I can tell you investing in your glass is one of the most important purchases you will make for your kit of gear and this zoom lens range is a must have for any photographer. I have other lenses I prefer to use when I have the option for them, but this 24-70mm is so perfect for most occasions it was  the first pro glass I got and definitely the main one I use. 

For a in depth review of the specs and tech of this lens check out: kenrockwell.com/nikon/24-70mm

nikonusa.com

Happy Shooting!

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Feb 17, 2016

Do It With Passion

My own journey as an educator and photographer has been a wonderful experience this far and I truly can’t wait for what is to come next. I do my best to be on the lookout for opportunity and inspiration and every once in a while something shows up and it seems to be from out of nowhere. Just like any good story, it starts out like any ordinary day. I was getting lunch and this particular lunch was the horrible choice of fast food. Not that Taco Bell is a horrible choice, no sir… It is annoyingly good for a quick bite on the fly. However this time was a bit different. Without any way to plan it I was confronted with inspiration and a reminder to continuously seek out my passion. How does lunch a Taco Bell remind me to seek out my passions you ask? Well just hit play and listen up. This 5 min episode (almost 7 and ½ min because of the intro and ending) has a fun encounter with an unlikely suspect to give such profound advice.  

Happy Shooting!

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Feb 15, 2016

Pursuit of Happiness

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - Declaration of Independence

Yes, this familiar line comes from the Declaration of Independence, but those last three words are the main ones on my mind. I have battled happiness just like anyone else. Sometimes we become overwhelmed with our families, work, finances, and other things. I myself have been so overwhelmed it almost felt like I couldn’t bounce back, but I always try to remember that tomorrow is another day. Things follow us or carry over, we may have continuous reminders with something that is bothering us, but if we do the best we can with each day and really try tomorrow and the next day, then eventually there will be a turning point.

What I suggest, or rather, remind Photo World to do is remember those perfectly written three words:  “Pursuit of Happiness”. Our lives are a journey, our businesses are a journey, and should constantly pursue Happiness within those journeys. It doesn’t happen overnight but if we put more effort into being happy by choosing to smile through an otherwise common or even boring situation, we will find that happiness spread into other areas of our lives. When you need to do something you don’t enjoy say… take out the trash. Do it with a smile and think, “it feels good to have this much more of my home clean”. Maybe you have a down month financially with your photography, be happy that you now have time to update your website or research the next conference you can attend.

Small doses can go a long way and over time, Photo World, you can form the habit of Happiness. This pursuit of happiness should never be undone and spread into other areas of your life and not just your business. This can help relationships, improve your health, and even extend your life.

I go over a few other points on this subject in this episode so please give it a listen and more importantly share the wealth by sharing this episode and podcast on facebook and twitter. For those of you who love history and appreciate the Pursuit of Happiness you can download the Declaration of Independence pdf!

Happy Shooting!

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Feb 12, 2016

Whats In My Bag part 1

I see videos from photographers I respect and follow as well as others without a large following and most of them love to put up a What's In My Bag video on YouTube. Frankly those videos do very little for me. It could be that knowing that does little for me personally, I don't have the time to watch a video like that, or just that I know more information on the gear that I find the video lacks learning for me individually.

You know me Photo World I try to stay humble and almost obsessively remind my audience that I have one opinion and that doesn't mean it is the "Number 1, Best way to do it!" kind of thing. Same idea applies here today and for the next few Friday's as I go over What's In My Bag. I have my own spin on it, like I do with most things (for proof click here on my ideas on how to evolve in business).

This week is Part 1 of I don't know how many, but I'm looking forward to sharing with you what is in my bag and some information on each piece.

Happy Shooting!

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Feb 10, 2016

New Photography Gear

As I get ready for a new semester of teaching I am preparing myself for the number one most asked question from newer photographers who want to be better image makers: “What piece of gear should I buy next?”

I love this question… more so, I love seeing the reaction after hearing my answer.

I am not sure where this idea of getting a new camera body equals being a better photographer. If that were the case I would pick up a medium format digital with 80 megapixels and be considered one of the best photographers around. Sure I would have to give up a few things, like my car and my house, but totally worth it to rise to the top… EEEHHHHH! WRONG! It doesn’t work like that and it never will. A camera is a tool and just like the latest drill or car, a camera is only as good as the person operating it. Your driving skills don’t go up because you get an Audi R8. A camera isn’t the first thing I would suggest upgrading.

There are always new gadgets to buy that will improve your photography greatly and in this episode I avoid diving deep into the technology topic, but I do share ideas about camera lenses and lighting for photography. My thoughts are my own when it comes to this topic of what gear should I get next. Really new photography gear is based on 3 things:

  • What do you need to enhance the photography you do and want to do?
  • What kind of budget are you really working with?
  • Is this worth the investment?

Answer those 3 things and you will have a better idea about what you need to add to your bag of gear.

Happy Shooting!

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Sign up for one of the last few spots here! 2015 © Take&TalkPics

Feb 8, 2016

Practice Makes Perfect - Monday Message

Photo World in today’s episode I speak on the topic of, “practice makes perfect”. We’ve all heard this and it seems simple enough. If you repeatedly work on the same style of selling to possible clients, over time you will find when you say certain things or talk about one aspect of the job, people perk up and lean in for more. On the flip side, you may find how you word something, clients shut down or lean away with disinterest. Understanding this and “PRACTICING” it will allow for how to approach a client and the way you speak to them, and therefore over time that practice makes perfect.

One major problem with this narrow way of thinking. Perfect exists in very few places and in even fewer human interactions with anything. The thought is, if you were able to achieve perfect in something, then you are left without any potential for improvement. The fact that humans can climb Mt. Everest doesn’t mean we do not crave new heights or other adventures that could be just as thrilling or rewarding. We have this somewhat annoying desire for more. AHHH! That word “DESIRE” is a major buzz word. I don’t have time this week to unfold the many secrets of that chasm.

Practice makes perfect is an unrealistic dream and I find it to be misleading for those of us who do work hard in our businesses. I have wild fantasies of great wealth and how I would live, the cars I would buy, the people I would help, and the places I would go; however, dreaming on this does little for me than open my mind to the idea that it could be possible to see this as a real situation in my life. Dreams are a wonderful story that only our subconscious could design. Now, goals are the real process to our practice making anything that would resemble a skewed idea of perfect. Again, I don’t believe perfection is very possible due to our true desired plans. More is what we seek and more is what we can work for if we are willing to put in the practice.

Without giving it all away… listen to this episode on why practice makes perfect is a fraudulent ideal and my solution to a positive and fathomable point of view concerning this matter.

Happy Shooting!

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Feb 5, 2016

kelly Alex Jan 28 (7 days ag0)
You have a new message!

kelly Alex checked out your Storefront and wants to learn more about your services.

Message from kelly:

Hello This is Kelly Alex , how are you doing ?, I will like to know your availability day in February 14, 2016 just 5 hours service, Also i will need portrait work done after the photography work is done after the event, I will like you to get back to me with your availability day in March its a family Reunion Party,.. I will like you to email back Asap. Do you accept credit card payment ?. Regards,Kelly

 

 

Rob Krueger - Jan 29 (8 days ago) to kellyalex

Kelly,

Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to check the date to be sure I have availability. In the message I was sent I show January 14th 2016 as the event date and in your message you asked about February 14th 2016, and then asking about March but not a specific date. If you could please let me know what day(s) you are in need of photography coverage. Also is this for a wedding, family reunion, or portrait session?

Please let me know so I can more accurately check my availability and also help in any way I can in capturing your special event(s).

Thank you,

Rob

If needed please call me at (000) 000-0000.

Website – robkruegerphotography.com

Podcast – TakeAndTalkPics.com

#robkruegerphotography

#HeyPhotoWorld

#PhotoWorld

RE:

Hello This is Kelly Alex , how are you doing ?, I will like to know your availability day in February 14, 2016 ju…

 

 

My Text message I received:

Hello Good morning how was your night this is Kelly Alex  the photography what is your full name pls

 

 

Happy Shooting!

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Sign up for one of the last few spots here! 2015 © Take&TalkPics

Feb 3, 2016

Ignore The Competition - Eric Dejuan

Eric is a commercial photographer based out of Birmingham, Alabama. He specializes in athletic and fitness photography. With 9 years in business Eric has shot for clients such as Yamaha USA, Adobe, B-Metro Magazine, and other. Eric focuses on the relationships he builds and is always motivated to create and improve.

Note from Rob: Photo World if I can tell you one great thing from the experience of meeting and getting to know Eric, it would be: You should never stop looking for opportunities. His name was briefly mentioned during a webinar but something caught my ear and I knew I needed to investigate. Eric's name was one of about 10 that came up but for some reason I looked into his photography. It didn't take long for me to see I need to get this guy on my show. There is a refined style in his work and seasoned way of thinking within his bio. Long story short... Eric is my kind of people. Motivated, passionate, emphasizes continued educations and networking, and chasing the higher level like any true entrepreneur would.

Eric Dejuan is an up and coming commercial photographer. 9 years ago after a brief dabble in photography as a hobby. Today, Eric Dejuan has worked with clients such as Yamaha USA, Adobe Inc., B-Metro Magazine, and others, specializing in Athletic & Fitness photography, Eric quickly realized he had a passion for the art and from there his skill set started to develop. Always motivated to create and improve, Eric strives to make each moment captured a more complete piece. His attitude, motivation, and his work will all help him to have successful business relationships with some of the biggest advertisers in the business, and eventually the world. His goals not only include positive results in the advertising market, he has his eyes set on charity work in his local community. Don't judge a book by its cover, or in his case, a picture.

Book Recommendations:

48 Laws of Power by: Robert Greene

Shark Tank Jump Start Your Business: How to Launch and Grow a Business from Concept to Cash

W: ericdejuan.com 

Bechance: https://www.behance.net/EricDejuan
Snapchat: EricDejuan
 

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Feb 1, 2016

The Skee Ball Effect – Monday Message

I have a new approach to business and I have been working this newly coined phrase “The Skee Ball Effect” – Rob Krueger. It has resonated with me so much that I had to buy the domain name and I know it sounds ridiculous, but when you have ideas you need to go for them and test them out. This episode is not the test but it is a great show lightly breaking down The Skee Ball Effect and how we can use it to our advantage in a photography or and other small business. We have chosen a path to follow and the greatest success comes with great risk. I don’t think there are many opportunities that act as a lottery ticket in running a small business and supercharge your progress to this overarching version of success that anyone would envy. However, The Skee Ball Effect has proven to be an incredible guidance for me and more so for Take & Talk Pics and therefore in turn for you Photo World. I have been working hard and finding many ups and downs along the way but I do have to say I am coming out stronger regardless of how I approach change and progress within this podcast/blog. I just want to pass on the tools to you as well so you may find growth in the most unexpected experiences in your career. As an added bonus I am offering a free coaching call with me, to take an hour and discus your business one on one and see what kind of clarity I can help offer. Go to takeandtalkpics.com/coaching to sign up for you free coaching call today!

Happy Shooting!

Get your FREE business coaching call with Rob!

Sign up for one of the last few spots here! 2015 © Take&TalkPics

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