Ian Jones (@iansjones), is a creative powerhouse from Pittsburgh known for his authentic and impactful photo and video content. With a passion for pushing creative boundaries, Ian has built a reputation for producing work that is both relatable, innovative, and of high quality.

In this episode, Ian dives into the challenges of balancing artistic passion with the realities of content creation in today’s fast-paced world. He shares his thoughts on staying authentic while navigating social media trends, the importance of relatability in creative work, and how to avoid the trap of creating solely for metrics. Ian also reflects on his desire for greater challenges, the struggle to find his audience, and the value of embracing calculated risks to grow as a creative. This conversation is packed with insights for anyone looking to elevate their craft while staying true to their vision.

Expect to Learn:

• The importance of staying authentic while navigating the challenges of gaining visibility on social media
• Why imperfection often resonates more than polished, formulaic work
• Why having diverse content makes it harder to build a consistent audience
• The importance of trying new approaches to pursue bigger opportunities
• How to overdeliver without burning out

Ian's links:

Ian's Website: https://www.isjdesigns.com/
Ian's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iansjones_

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! This summer, enjoy big savings with discounts up to $300 on a range of lenses, including their award-winning 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 lens now at its lowest price ever. Featuring a constant F/2.8 aperture and built-in image stabilization, this lens is packed with customization options to help you capture perfect shots. Don’t wait—visit www.tamron-americas.com or your local Tamron dealer today!

Our Links:

Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions:
https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

Ian Jones (@iansjones), is a creative powerhouse from Pittsburgh known for his authentic and impactful photo and video content. With a passion for pushing creative boundaries, Ian has built a reputation for producing work that is both relatable, innovative, and of high quality.

In this episode, Ian shares how quitting alcohol transformed his life, unlocking newfound clarity, energy, and a relentless drive to create. He dives into the challenges of breaking old habits, the importance of making content for yourself, and how staying true to your vision can lead to meaningful work. With insights on balancing personal growth and creative passion, Ian’s story is a powerful reminder to embrace change and channel your energy into what truly matters.

Expect to Learn:

• How quitting alcohol unlocks a new level of mental clarity and creativity
• The value of using creativity as a productive outlet
• The importance of making content for yourself rather than chasing trends
• The importance of self-awareness in recognizing unhealthy patterns
• Why creators should embrace their human side to connect with audiences

Ian's links:

Ian's Website: https://www.isjdesigns.com/
Ian's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iansjones_

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! This summer, enjoy big savings with discounts up to $300 on a range of lenses, including their award-winning 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 lens now at its lowest price ever. Featuring a constant F/2.8 aperture and built-in image stabilization, this lens is packed with customization options to help you capture perfect shots. Don’t wait—visit www.tamron-americas.com or your local Tamron dealer today!

Our Links:

Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions:
https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

Lianna Nixon (@liannanixon) is a polar guide, climate science educator, and storyteller who uses her camera to connect people with the Arctic's fragile beauty and its global significance. With a background in education and a passion for conservation, Lianna has spent years exploring the Arctic, guiding expeditions, and documenting the stories of its wildlife and ecosystems.

In this episode, Lianna shares her journey of becoming a polar guide and photographer, blending her love for storytelling with her expertise in climate science. She discusses the challenges of making science relatable, the art of sparking curiosity, and the importance of empowering others through education and imagery. Lianna also opens up about her experiences working with polar bears, the evolving Arctic landscape, and her efforts to support underrepresented voices in conservation.

Expect to Learn:

• How storytelling can make both you and complex topics relatable
• Insights into the unique dynamics of the Arctic, and the importance of sea ice
• Strategies for communicating in a way that connects emotionally with people
• How deal with imposter syndrome, and find a unique path to success
• How education and community-driven initiatives can empower individuals

Lianna's links:

Website: www.liannanixon.com
Bear Guiding Tours: www.bearexpeditions.org

Navajo Community NPO: www.tsebii.com

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

Use the code TPM2025 at checkout for 15% off and free shipping for all of June 2025! https://www.whitewall.com/

Our Links:

Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions:
https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show