Episode 21 - Ben Horne and How Perceptions of Our Photography Change Over Time
- Shutter Nonsense
- Feb 24
- 5 min read
Embracing the Journey: Navigating Perceptions and Creativity in Photography
In this most recent episode of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael and Jeffrey sit down with a special guest, landscape photographer Ben Horne, for a thoughtful conversation about how the way we see our own photographs changes over time. What starts as excitement or disappointment in the moment often shifts months or years later, sometimes in ways we never expect.
Ben shares stories from a recent trip to Zion, walks through his film and large-format workflow, and reflects on what it’s like to revisit older work with fresh eyes. Together, they talk openly about creative doubt, the tension between technical perfection and emotional impact, and why some images only reveal their value long after they were made. This episode is an honest discussion about growth, patience, and learning to trust the photographic process.
Highlights
How photographers’ perceptions of their own work evolve over time
Revisiting older images and seeing them differently years later
Creative doubt and its role in long-term growth
Balancing technical perfection with emotional impact
Film photography, large format workflow, and slowing down
Why some images take time to reveal their value
Ben Horne’s Website: https://www.benhorne.com/
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Contents
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Episode Summary
In episode 21 of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael and Jeffrey dive deep into the complexities of perception and creativity in photography, focusing on the shifting ways photographers engage with their work over time. Joined by guest Ben Horne, a film photographer known for his methodical approach to nature photography, the hosts explore how experiences in the field shape the creative process.
A Journey Through Creativity
The episode opens with Michael setting the stage for an immersive discussion about introspection within the craft. The conversation quickly transitions to photography creativity, as Ben shares his distinctive process of shooting large format film, which demands patience and contemplation. He describes a workflow where the initial impression of a photograph often leads to disappointment but eventually evolves into satisfaction and pride through revisiting and refining.
Experiencing Nature Through the Lens
The discussion encompasses the trio's recent nature photography expeditions. Jeffrey reflects on his workshops in West Virginia and a visit to the Smoky Mountains, highlighting how weather and seasonal changes influence both experience and output. Meanwhile, Michael recounts his time in Zion and Escalante, Utah, shedding light on how experiences like hiking through a canyon on a personal commemorative journey can intensify the creative bond with nature.
This emotional connection with nature photography is underscored by the impact of mood and environment on the creative process. Ben echoes these sentiments, noting how his photography sessions—often as simple as capturing a leaf—transcend into a personal narrative that enhances his work.
Evolving with Time and Perception
Central to the conversation is understanding how perceptions of one's photography evolve. Both Michael and Jeffrey confess to occasional dissatisfaction with images upon first review. They emphasize that a critical aspect of photography experiences is allowing time to reinterpret and appreciate an image, equating it to revisiting an 'old friend.' This perspective is vital in fostering growth and overcoming the temptation to dismiss work based on perceived imperfections.
Ben and the hosts encourage listeners to be less critical about technical deficiencies, shifting focus to the emotion and message carried by the image. Through this acceptance, creativity flourishes, enabling each photo to be seen not just as a representation of a scene, but as a reflection of an experience and the feelings it invoked.
Conclusion: The Timeless Dance Between Art and Emotion
The episode concludes with a discussion on whether maturing as a photographer entails becoming more or less critical of work. Both hosts and Ben agree that as photographers mature, they tend to be more forgiving of slight imperfections, focusing instead on the emotional resonance of their photography. The overarching theme is one of balance: between technical proficiency and creative vision, personal memory and shared experience, and the artist's journey and their audience.
By embracing the process of capturing and revisiting images, photographers can cultivate an enriching and dynamic relationship with their art, allowing for a more honest and fulfilling exploration of nature through the lens. This journey through photography creativity is a testament to the power of perception and the enduring impact of photography experiences on the soul.
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Follow your Shutter Nonsense Hosts
Michael Rung
Michael is a nature and landscape photographer based in Texas, with a deep appreciation for quiet forests and the unique character of trees. His photography often explores the subtle beauty in overlooked scenes, capturing atmosphere and emotion through careful composition and light. Michael brings thoughtful insight, honest reflections, and a grounded perspective to every episode of Shutter Nonsense.
Jeffrey Tadlock
Jeffrey is a landscape photographer from Ohio who finds inspiration in waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and the ever-changing light of the natural world. He enjoys sharing stories from the field and helping others improve their skills through practical, experience-based tips. With a passion for teaching and a love of the outdoors, Jeffrey brings clarity and encouragement to fellow photographers at all levels.
