312: Alfredo Mora - Unlocking Creativity Through Experimentation

One of the best ways to differentiate ourselves as photographers is to fully engage in the creative process. As such, one sure-fire path to making more creative work is to experiment. Experimentation can help to unlock creativity and help us create more interesting work. Since experimentation is something I think we can all learn more about, I was excited to record a podcast with one of my favorite photographers here in Colorado, Alfredo Mora . Alfredo works full-time supporting the NASA program and takes some absolutely splendid images, largely using experimental techniques. He placed third in the 2nd year of the Natural Landscape Photography Awards and has always impressed me with his modesty and level-headedness. On this week's episode, we discuss: How Alfredo got into photography. How Alfredo's background in architectural photography has helped him as a nature photographer. How Alfredo's cultural background has influenced his path and approach to making images. How Alfredo is able to balance a full-time job supporting NASA launches, a family, and his photographic pursuits. The importance of taking risks as a photographer. How Alfredo experiments with Intentional Camera Movement (ICM), multiple exposures, and Photoshop blend modes to create unique images. How Alfredo's approach to making images has shifted from results-driven to experience-driven. The differences between being inspired and copying other people's photographs. Processes for releasing images to the public. Photography competitions. Writing and moderating the critique group for Nature Photographer's Network (NPN). And a lot more! Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week: Support the podcast on Patreon . Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount! Alfredo's article on his ICM blending techniques . Jon Norris - Joshua Tree workshops . Emily McCulliss' Storyboard . Watch podcast episodes on YouTube . Here is who Alfredo recommended on the podcast this week: David Ward . Michael Frye . Kevin Monahan . Klaus Axelsen . Jason Pettit . Kristin Weinhold . Elvis Dallie . I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram , Facebook , or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page , a Facebook Page , and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy! We also have a searchable transcript of every episode ! Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week. P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link .