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Shutter NonsenseAuthor: Shutter Nonsense
Welcome to Shutter Nonsense - a laid-back nature photography podcast with hosts Michael Rung and Jeffrey Tadlock. Every other week, we dive into the world of landscape and nature photography with casual conversations about what weve been up to, current happenings in the photography world, and tips to help you grow as a photographer. Whether youre a weekend hiker with a camera or a seasoned shooter chasing perfect light, youre in good company. Its not utter nonsense... but it is Shutter Nonsense. Language: en Genres: Arts, Visual Arts Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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020 Photography as a Hobby or a Business?
Episode 20
Tuesday, 10 February, 2026
Is photography better kept as a passion, or does turning it into a business change the relationship entirely? In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey dig into the real-world tradeoffs between photography as a hobby and photography as a source of income. The discussion explores what monetization actually looks like for landscape photographers, why prints and education tend to be the most common paths, and how financial pressure can quietly influence creativity, subject choice, and long-term enjoyment of the craft. The episode also looks beyond gear and images to the less visible side of the business: financial readiness, safety nets, diversification of income, and the mental and emotional weight of being “always on.” Whether photography is something you love on the weekends or something you are trying to build into a career, this episode offers an honest framework for thinking through the decision with intention. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Hobby vs business: what it really means to monetize photography Common income paths for landscape photographers, including prints and education Why portraits and events often become the first step into paid photography The reality of saturation and competition in nature photography The hidden workload behind monetization and being constantly “on” Financial readiness beyond gear: savings, insurance, and unexpected expenses Why timing matters when considering full-time photography How monetization can influence creativity and subject choice Balancing personal passion with work that is more marketable When paid photography starts to pull energy away from what you love How teaching and selling work can deepen connection with an audience The importance of diversified income streams for long-term stability Relevant Links: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/struggling Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com
