Photography Tips, Career Advice & Candid Storytelling with Adam Phillips

Join Adam Phillips in this episode of The Photography Podcast as he shares his journey as a professional photographer and videographer, the lessons he’s learned over 20 years, and why candid moments are at the heart of his work.

Adam dives into:

• What he enjoys most about photography and capturing authentic, unplanned moments.
• Tips for beginners and aspiring professionals on getting started and growing in the industry.
• His favorite lenses and gear, plus why he recently upgraded to mirrorless cameras.
• How to balance a photography career with life, family, and adventure.
• His thoughts on AI imagery and the importance of ethical, authentic photography.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your photography career, this episode is full of advice, inspiration, and practical tips you can apply today.

Subscribe to The Photography Podcast for more insights, stories, and guidance from Adam and guest photographers who share their experiences behind the lens.

Transcript

Podcast Transcript – Adam Phillips

What's up, guys? This is your photography podcast. I’m Adam Phillips, your host. If you’re new here, please subscribe—I really appreciate you tuning in, wherever you are, whether you’re at the gym, on your commute, or just taking a break. I hope I can share some words of encouragement, advice, or insight about photography, business, or just life in general.

If you haven’t heard my podcast in a while, it’s because life happened. I had a daughter, she started walking and getting into everything, and as a stay-at-home dad, things got chaotic. I took a pause because keeping up with guests and managing life felt impossible. But now, life has a bit more rhythm, and I’ve learned to trust my circle to help watch her when needed. So we’re back to doing podcasts!

This episode is a little different. Previously, I had a set of questions I’d ask guests, and sometimes I stuck to them to hit a specific time. But I don’t want to be rigid anymore. A conversation should flow naturally, like Chris Doe said, rather than just ticking off a list of questions. That said, I still have a few go-to questions I like to explore.

So, let’s dive in: What do I enjoy most about photography?

Honestly, it’s connecting with people. Capturing emotions is great, but my favorite moments are always candid—authentic stories that aren’t staged. Weddings, commercial work, product photography—it doesn’t matter. The moments I love most are the ones that could never be recreated, the unique looks, reactions, or expressions that happen naturally. Those are the moments that preserve life as it really is.

Photography also has the power to evoke memories. An image of a landscape, a baseball stadium, or even something as simple as a croissant can trigger deep emotions for someone. That’s the beauty of photography—it connects us to life and preserves memories, much like painting or drawing did before photography existed. And for me, it’s personal. A lot of my passion comes from my dad, who instilled that love in me.

Is photography my full-time work?
Yes. It’s my career, but it’s not just photography—I do video too. Recently, I started a media company called The Method Media. People don’t just hire me to shoot—they hire me to help with content strategy, podcast planning, and guidance on what content to create. That work needed its own platform outside of Phil Photo, because people know Phil Photo as a photography and videography brand.

What else do I enjoy?
Skiing, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, running, and scuba diving. My military background as a parachute rigger and skydiver fuels my love for adventure. Even though I’ve never considered myself an athlete, I’ve always been able to combine these passions with photography, capturing the right moments in action sports.

How long have I been doing photography?
I picked up a film camera in 2003. That’s roughly 20 years now. I wasn’t great at first, but I had some moments I’m proud of. What makes a photo great isn’t always lighting or composition—it’s the story and memories behind it.

Favorite lens?
Currently, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.0 L VCM. I love the weight, balance, and clarity, especially when using gimbals or in motion work. I recently upgraded to the Canon R5 Mark II, and the mirrorless system improves calibration and overall image quality, even with older EF lenses.

Recent and favorite projects?
Recently, I’ve worked with high school sports, which has been a fun challenge. But my favorite project remains a trip to Denali Base Camp in Alaska. A friend invited me on the trip, and he later passed away in a car accident, which gives the images even deeper meaning for me.

If I could change one thing in the photography industry, what would it be?
I’d get rid of AI-generated imagery. It doesn’t foster human connection, it can be deceptive, and it often manipulates or misuses someone else’s work. Photography is about authenticity, storytelling, and human connection—not shortcuts.

Favorite thing to photograph?
People—doing their thing, whether it’s fishing, hunting, mountain biking, skiing, or working in trades. I love capturing landscapes too, but people are the most meaningful subjects for me.

Goals in photography and life?
Keep improving, deepen human connections, and cut through the noise of inauthenticity in the world.

Tips for beginners?
Start with what you have—your phone, your current camera. Learn to shoot, learn to edit, and focus on storytelling rather than gear. Don’t overdo editing; less is more.

If you’re turning photography into a career, understand your value, scale your pricing as you gain skill, and don’t be afraid to raise rates even if it means losing some clients. Work strategically. And most importantly, give yourself permission to call yourself a professional—no one else will hand you that title.

I appreciate you tuning in, wherever you are. If you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, share, or leave a rating on Apple Podcasts. Every little bit helps the podcast grow.

Thanks, guys. Talk to you next time!