The Biggest Lie in Photography Education: Joe Edelman, EO85

The MOOD Podcast

Is photography education today more about selling than actually teaching?

Are we losing the art of problem-solving in the pursuit of easy answers?

Joe Edelman, an award-winning photographer, educator, and mentor, has spent over six decades shaping the industry. From his early days as a newspaper photojournalist to pioneering creative fashion and portrait photography, Joe’s passion lies in helping photographers master not just the technical, but the artistic and emotional depths of photography.

What we discussed:

• The biggest lie in photography education today
• Why photographers should focus on the why before the how
• How social media has fueled a “banger mentality” that kills creativity
• The real difference between amateur and professional photographers
• Why AI and technology won’t replace great photographers—but bad ones
• The truth about photography rules (and why most should be ignored)
• How to develop a photography career in today’s saturated market
• Why “Don’t be afraid to suck” is the best advice for any photographer
• The role of mentorship and why great photographers don’t always make great teachers
• What Joe would do if he were starting his career today

Find Joe's work on his channels:
Website: www.joeedelman.com
Instagram: @joeedelman
You Tube: @theJoeEdelman

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Joe Edelman (00:00:00)

2. The Big Lie in Photography Education (00:02:32)

3. Joe's Origin Story (00:10:47)

4. Understanding the Why Before the How (00:19:43)

5. Not Being Afraid to Suck (00:34:42)

6. Breaking Free from Photography Rules (00:48:27)

7. The Evolution of Cameras and Education (01:07:40)

8. Finding Business Opportunities in Photography (01:18:26)

9. The Future of Photography in an AI World (01:27:39)