On this week’s show, we sit down with photo agent and industry veteran Tim Paton for an unflinchingly honest look at life behind the lens — and the spreadsheets. From running a successful agency through the digital revolution to helping launch careers at Magnum Photos, Tim shares war stories, hard-won wisdom, and practical insights for navigating the unpredictable world of commercial photography. We discuss everything from creative authenticity and career pivots to why AI might not just be the future — it could be your competition. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is a goldmine of real-world advice, told with humour, humility, and heart.Thank you for listening to The Exposed Negative Podcast. Running this podcast takes a lot of time and effort, and we hope you have found it helpful and interesting. If you would like to support us by buying us a beer or coffee, or by helping with the running costs of the show, we would greatly appreciate it. Please consider signing up for our Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/exposednegative) or making a one-time donation through PayPal (https://www.paypal.me/exposednegative). Thank you for your support! Here are the shownotes;Nick Turpin: https://nickturpin.com/Alan Clarke: https://alanclarke.com/Benedict Redgrove: https://benedictredgrove.com/Allan Schaller: https://www.alanschaller.com/Martin Parr: https://www.martinparr.com/Russell Miller | Magnum: Fifty Years at the Front line of History: https://amzn.to/45yKeorJosef Koudelka: https://www.magnumphotos.com/photographer/josef-koudelka/To get in contact with Tim: www.ourfriendtim.comTim@timpaton.co.ukInstagram: timpaton1Desert Island CameraRicoh GRIIDesert Island BookAlex Webb - The Suffering of Light: https://amzn.to/4dV1o1yJoel Sternfield - American Prospects: https://amzn.to/446HMUJ

In this engaging conversation, Tom Barnes interviews Greg Funnell, exploring his journey into photography — from childhood curiosity to becoming a professional photojournalist. Greg shares his early fascination with cameras, the magic of darkroom photography, and the experiences that shaped his career, including assignments in conflict zones.

They discuss the importance of storytelling in photography, the emotional toll of working in difficult environments, and the ongoing pursuit of growth in the craft. Greg also reflects on the thrill of capturing powerful moments, the balance between personal and editorial work, and the future of photography in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Thank you for listening to The Exposed Negative Podcast. Running this podcast takes a lot of time and effort, and we hope you’ve found it helpful and interesting. If you’d like to support us — whether by buying us a beer or helping with the running costs — we’d be incredibly grateful.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/exposednegative

One-time donation via PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/exposednegative

Thank you for your support!

Show Notes:

• Greg’s early fascination with cameras began in childhood

• Influenced by his father’s interest in photography

• The magic of the darkroom hooked him instantly

• Honed his skills at university and through student journalism

• First major assignments were in conflict zones

• Stresses the importance of storytelling in visual work

• Admires photographers with strong narrative voices

• Photography as a tool for preserving fleeting moments

• Calls photography a “passport for lifelong learning”

• Describes the thrill of capturing moments as similar to fishing

• Talks about the emotional cost of witnessing suffering

• Discusses photography as a means of gaining perspective

• Predicts future tech shifts in the industry

• Emphasizes the need to prioritise personal projects

• Says being trusted with someone’s story is a true privilege

• Believes the magic of photography will always resonate

On this week’s show, Tom and Greg sit down for an unscripted fireside-style catch-up, diving deep into the realities of freelance creative life. From using ChatGPT to manage work on the move, to staying fit without a gym, they unpack the routines and mindsets that keep them sane. Expect candid talk on burnout, personal freedom, mental health, and the not-so-glamorous truths behind portfolio prep and gear failures. A must-listen for photographers, freelancers, and anyone navigating the ups and downs of self-employed life.Thank you for listening to The Exposed Negative Podcast. Running this podcast takes a lot of time and effort, and we hope you have found it helpful and interesting. If you would like to support us by buying us a beer or coffee, or by helping with the running costs of the show, we would greatly appreciate it. Please consider signing up for our Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/exposednegative) or making a one-time donation through PayPal (https://www.paypal.me/exposednegative). Thank you for your support! Here are the shownotes;FAQ pageswww.gregfunnell.com/faqwww.tombarnes.com/faqRunning Belt: https://amzn.to/4kcXDXfPeak Design Packing Cube: https://amzn.to/4iUEtnHPeak Design Adventure Backpack: https://amzn.to/3YxYjOq