Zai shares how he broke into the art world the old-fashioned way — with hustle. He took his photos, printed them, and walked around events like Art Basel with his work in hand. That same hustle and authenticity still defines everything he creates today.
https://youtu.be/yKJUE0Fo498
He opens up about his legendary 4-month cross-country project documenting a runner, where he learned to embrace "beautiful accidents," stay flexible, and let the images speak for themselves. He also reveals his ambitious 6-year Hair Project — a sweeping body of work exploring Black American hair history from the 16th century to today. The project serves as both a living history book and a powerful call to support the Crown Act (2022 legislation that protects Black and brown people from discrimination based on their natural hair textures in schools, workplaces, and public spaces).
Zai shares deeply personal stories: growing up in Texas barber shops where hair was celebrated and transformative ("leaving feeling like kings") versus being asked to cut his hair or leave environments because it "didn't fit the box America wanted to put us in."
We also dive into:
If you're a photographer, filmmaker, or creative who believes in authentic storytelling, cultural impact, and doing things your own way, this conversation will move you.
Timestamps:
Watch until the end for Zai's closing wisdom. Drop a comment: What's one project you've been working on for years that means the most to you?
Subscribe for more real conversations with photographers who are changing the game.
Guest: Zai
Host: Ron Henry of BLACKRAPID
Producer: Bry Cox of BryCox.com
Zai's Website – zaitoldme.com
Zai's Instagram – @zaitoldme
BLACKRAPID Camera Straps – blackrapid.com
BLACKRAPID Media – blackrapidmedia.com
Subscribe for more inspiring photography conversations!
#BLACKRAPIDPodcast #ZaiPhotography #CrownAct #HairProject #BlackHair #DocumentaryPhotography #BlackAndWhitePhotography #PowerOfAttraction #CulturalStorytelling #Zaitoldme #ArtBasel
]]>Zai shares how he broke into the art world the old-fashioned way — with hustle. He took his photos, printed them, and walked around events like Art Basel with his work in hand. That same hustle and authenticity still defines everything he creates today.
https://youtu.be/yKJUE0Fo498
He opens up about his legendary 4-month cross-country project documenting a runner, where he learned to embrace "beautiful accidents," stay flexible, and let the images speak for themselves. He also reveals his ambitious 6-year Hair Project — a sweeping body of work exploring Black American hair history from the 16th century to today. The project serves as both a living history book and a powerful call to support the Crown Act (2022 legislation that protects Black and brown people from discrimination based on their natural hair textures in schools, workplaces, and public spaces).
Zai shares deeply personal stories: growing up in Texas barber shops where hair was celebrated and transformative ("leaving feeling like kings") versus being asked to cut his hair or leave environments because it "didn't fit the box America wanted to put us in."
We also dive into:
If you're a photographer, filmmaker, or creative who believes in authentic storytelling, cultural impact, and doing things your own way, this conversation will move you.
Timestamps:
Watch until the end for Zai's closing wisdom. Drop a comment: What's one project you've been working on for years that means the most to you?
Subscribe for more real conversations with photographers who are changing the game.
Guest: Zai Host: Ron Henry of BLACKRAPID Producer: Bry Cox of BryCox.com
LinksZai's Website – zaitoldme.com Zai's Instagram – @zaitoldme BLACKRAPID Camera Straps – blackrapid.com BLACKRAPID Media – blackrapidmedia.com
Subscribe for more inspiring photography conversations!
#BLACKRAPIDPodcast #ZaiPhotography #CrownAct #HairProject #BlackHair #DocumentaryPhotography #BlackAndWhitePhotography #PowerOfAttraction #CulturalStorytelling #Zaitoldme #ArtBasel
]]>He opens up about facilitating life-changing experiences for keen amateurs on his workshops—handling loose itineraries in chaotic places, approaching strangers for authentic portraits, and why connection beats perfection.
Glynn also explains how BLACKRAPID straps keep him shooting pain-free after 35+ years, his pragmatic gear choices (Tamron lenses, two cameras always ready), and timeless advice: don't pre-visualize—go with the flow and capture what's in front of you.
A must-listen for photographers, travelers, and anyone who loves real, human stories from off-the-beaten-path places.
Guest: Glynn Lavender
Host: Ron Henry of BLACKRAPID
Links:
Subscribe for more inspiring photography conversations!
]]>He opens up about facilitating life-changing experiences for keen amateurs on his workshops—handling loose itineraries in chaotic places, approaching strangers for authentic portraits, and why connection beats perfection.
Glynn also explains how BLACKRAPID straps keep him shooting pain-free after 35+ years, his pragmatic gear choices (Tamron lenses, two cameras always ready), and timeless advice: don't pre-visualize—go with the flow and capture what's in front of you.
A must-listen for photographers, travelers, and anyone who loves real, human stories from off-the-beaten-path places.
Guest: Glynn Lavender
Host: Ron Henry of BLACKRAPID
Links:
Subscribe for more inspiring photography conversations!
]]>Matthew Bergsma's Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/matthew.bergsma/
BLACKRAPID Camera Straps
https://www.blackrapid.com
BLACKRAPID Media
https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
]]>
Matthew Bergsma's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/matthew.bergsma/
BLACKRAPID Camera Straps https://www.blackrapid.com
BLACKRAPID Media https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
]]>
Kevin Wilson is a New York City photographer who moves between music (rock, metal, Live Nation), the New York Fire Department, breaking news, crime scenes, and corporate work — often in the same week.
In this episode, Kevin talks about how he got his start shooting concerts through industry connections, the unexpected path that led him to becoming a contract photographer for the FDNY (including funerals and major fires), and how he stays ready with a constantly packed go-bag. He also shares the story behind his successful hot sauce side business and why he believes versatility is essential for surviving in today's photography industry.
Kevin is a long-time BLACKRAPID user (Double Strap) and speaks highly of the durability of the straps after thousands of events. A high-energy conversation about hustle, pivoting, and building a career that doesn't fit in one box.
Kevin Wilson, a rock and concert photographer in New York. Ron Henry (founder of BLACKRAPID) and Kevin talk about Kevin's line of custom hot sauce, shooting rock bands and nailing the timing of an image on stage, plus photographing fires for the NY fire department, and Kevin's camera gear load-out for events in New York.
]]>
In this episode, Kevin talks about how he got his start shooting concerts through industry connections, the unexpected path that led him to becoming a contract photographer for the FDNY (including funerals and major fires), and how he stays ready with a constantly packed go-bag. He also shares the story behind his successful hot sauce side business and why he believes versatility is essential for surviving in today's photography industry.
Kevin is a long-time BLACKRAPID user (Double Strap) and speaks highly of the durability of the straps after thousands of events. A high-energy conversation about hustle, pivoting, and building a career that doesn't fit in one box.
Kevin Wilson, a rock and concert photographer in New York. Ron Henry (founder of BLACKRAPID) and Kevin talk about Kevin's line of custom hot sauce, shooting rock bands and nailing the timing of an image on stage, plus photographing fires for the NY fire department, and Kevin's camera gear load-out for events in New York.
Kevin's portfolio https://www.kevinrcwilson.com Kevin's Unsellable Hot Sauce https://www.unsellablehotsauce.com BLACKRAPID Camera Straps https://www.blackrapid.com BLACKRAPID Media https://www.blackrapidmedia.com]]>
Ron Henry of BlackRapid talks with Jasin Boland about their philosophies of creating an image, authenticity and the dangers of AI in photography, personal photography growth, dreams, the art of creation, finding great angles and seeing differently, not to mention their collaboration on a new camera strap.
BlackRapid – https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Jasin Boland Website – https://jasinboland.com
Jasin Boland Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/jasinboland/
Jasin Boland YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/JasinBoland/
]]>Ron Henry of BlackRapid talks with Jasin Boland about their philosophies of creating an image, authenticity and the dangers of AI in photography, personal photography growth, dreams, the art of creation, finding great angles and seeing differently, not to mention their collaboration on a new camera strap.
BlackRapid – https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Jasin Boland Website – https://jasinboland.com
Jasin Boland Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/jasinboland/
Jasin Boland YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/JasinBoland/
]]>Ron Henry of BlackRapid talks with Jasin Boland about the dangers of photographing action movies, whether to use long or wide lenses, the beauty of imperfections, how enthusiasts are the heart of photography, and more.
BlackRapid – https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Jasin Boland Website – https://jasinboland.com
Jasin Boland Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/jasinboland/
Jasin Boland YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/JasinBoland/featured
]]>
Ron Henry of BlackRapid talks with Jasin Boland about the dangers of photographing action movies, whether to use long or wide lenses, the beauty of imperfections, how enthusiasts are the heart of photography, and more.
BlackRapid – https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Jasin Boland Website – https://jasinboland.com
Jasin Boland Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/jasinboland/
Jasin Boland YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/JasinBoland/featured
]]>
Bry shares how he built a long career that started in a photo lab, moved into portraits and weddings, and eventually expanded into teaching workshops around the world. He talks about the realities of working fast with high-profile clients, developing your own style, knowing your strengths (and when to hire help), and the "hierarchy of threes" he uses in his workshops.
The conversation also covers practical business advice for photographers just starting out, the shift in the industry during COVID, and how the profession continues to change with social media, trade shows, and client expectations.
A solid episode for anyone who shoots portraits or is building a photography business.
Ron Henry and Bry Cox talk about creativity, style, adding emotion to images, commercial photography, lighting, adapting during Covid – and motorcycles of course.
Bry Cox is a Gold Medalist out of 25,000 international photographers, has owned a studio in Utah for over 25 years. He teaches workshops throughout the US and abroad, is an Adobe Software Evangelist, is a PPA Master/Craftsman about 13 times over.
Ron Henry and Bry Cox talk creativity, style, adding emotion to images, commercial photography, adapting during Covid, and motorcycles.
BlackRapid Media – https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Bry Cox's Portrait Site – https://BryCox.com
Bry Cox's Commercial Site – https://BryCoxPro.com
Bry Cox's Training Site – https://BryCoxWorkshops.com
Instagram – https://Instagram.com/BryCoxStudio
]]>Bry shares how he built a long career that started in a photo lab, moved into portraits and weddings, and eventually expanded into teaching workshops around the world. He talks about the realities of working fast with high-profile clients, developing your own style, knowing your strengths (and when to hire help), and the "hierarchy of threes" he uses in his workshops.
The conversation also covers practical business advice for photographers just starting out, the shift in the industry during COVID, and how the profession continues to change with social media, trade shows, and client expectations.
A solid episode for anyone who shoots portraits or is building a photography business.
Ron Henry and Bry Cox talk about creativity, style, adding emotion to images, commercial photography, lighting, adapting during Covid – and motorcycles of course.
Bry Cox is a Gold Medalist out of 25,000 international photographers, has owned a studio in Utah for over 25 years. He teaches workshops throughout the US and abroad, is an Adobe Software Evangelist, is a PPA Master/Craftsman about 13 times over.
Ron Henry and Bry Cox talk creativity, style, adding emotion to images, commercial photography, adapting during Covid, and motorcycles.
BlackRapid Media – https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Bry Cox's Portrait Site – https://BryCox.com
Bry Cox's Commercial Site – https://BryCoxPro.com
Bry Cox's Training Site – https://BryCoxWorkshops.com
Instagram – https://Instagram.com/BryCoxStudio
]]>In this conversation, Mike and Ron talk about starting in the film era of the 1980s, the transition to digital, and what it takes to build lasting relationships in a smaller market. Mike shares how his business has evolved from seniors and weddings into multi-generational clients who keep coming back for decades.
They also discuss teaching, the changes he's seen in the wedding industry, the rise of female wedding photographers, street photography, and the simple joy of carrying a camera on motorcycle rides using a BLACKRAPID sling.
A grounded, real-world look at sustaining a photography business over the long haul.
Mike Ridinger has been a full time photographer for over 35 years and is based in Lewiston, Idaho. He has spoken at PPA Imaging, SYNC, After Dark, Light Pro Expo, and several state affiliates.
Mike (or Dinger as he is known) has a knack for teaching in a way that is easy to understand and is a popular instructor everywhere he goes. Mike has 2 sons, Keaton and Cade. He received his PPA Craftsman Degree in 2014.
In this conversation, Mike and Ron talk about starting in the film era of the 1980s, the transition to digital, and what it takes to build lasting relationships in a smaller market. Mike shares how his business has evolved from seniors and weddings into multi-generational clients who keep coming back for decades.
They also discuss teaching, the changes he's seen in the wedding industry, the rise of female wedding photographers, street photography, and the simple joy of carrying a camera on motorcycle rides using a BLACKRAPID sling.
A grounded, real-world look at sustaining a photography business over the long haul.
Mike Ridinger has been a full time photographer for over 35 years and is based in Lewiston, Idaho. He has spoken at PPA Imaging, SYNC, After Dark, Light Pro Expo, and several state affiliates.
Mike (or Dinger as he is known) has a knack for teaching in a way that is easy to understand and is a popular instructor everywhere he goes. Mike has 2 sons, Keaton and Cade. He received his PPA Craftsman Degree in 2014.
Follow Mike RidingerThey chat about picking up Led Zeppelin from the Hawaii airport, photographing various rock stars, positive thinking, synchronicity, and removing the noise from thoughts and moving forward with intention.
https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
]]>They chat about picking up Led Zeppelin from the Hawaii airport, photographing various rock stars, positive thinking, synchronicity, and removing the noise from thoughts and moving forward with intention.
https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
]]>In this podcast Mark and Ron talk about music photography during the Covid shutdown.
https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Instagram – instagram.com/photosbydoyle
Facebook – facebook.com/photosbydoyle
Website – markdoylephoto.com
]]>In this podcast Mark and Ron talk about music photography during the Covid shutdown.
https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Instagram – instagram.com/photosbydoyle
Facebook – facebook.com/photosbydoyle
Website – markdoylephoto.com
]]>https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Koury's Spotlight on BlackRapid https://www.blackrapid.com/blackrapid-guest-post-by-koury-angelo-photography/
Koury's Website https://www.kouryangelo.com/
Instagram @kouryangelo
Facebook @kouryangelophotography
]]>https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Koury's Spotlight on BlackRapid https://www.blackrapid.com/blackrapid-guest-post-by-koury-angelo-photography/
Koury's Website https://www.kouryangelo.com/
Instagram @kouryangelo
Facebook @kouryangelophotography
]]>https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Website –joeendy.wixsite.com/photography
Instagram – instagram.com/photos_by_joe_endy
Facebook – facebook.com/photosbyjoeendy
https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Follow Joe EndyWebsite –joeendy.wixsite.com/photography Instagram – instagram.com/photos_by_joe_endy Facebook – facebook.com/photosbyjoeendy
]]>https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Website – stonefoto.com
Instagram – @hopper_stone
Black Rapid Spotlight on Hopper Stone – https://www.blackrapid.com/blackrapid-spotlight-hopper-stone/
]]>https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Follow Hopper StoneWebsite – stonefoto.com
Instagram – @hopper_stone
Black Rapid Spotlight on Hopper Stone – https://www.blackrapid.com/blackrapid-spotlight-hopper-stone/
]]>https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Photography Website – HenryDiltz.com
Gallery Website – MorrisonHotelGallery.com
Henry Diltz Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/henrydiltz/
Morrison Hotel Gallery Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/morrisonhotelgallery/
Original Podcast with Ron Henry, Henry Diltz, and Rich Horowitz
]]>https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Follow Henry Diltz & Rich HorowitzPhotography Website – HenryDiltz.com
Gallery Website – MorrisonHotelGallery.com
Henry Diltz Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/henrydiltz/
Morrison Hotel Gallery Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/morrisonhotelgallery/
Original Podcast with Ron Henry, Henry Diltz, and Rich Horowitz
]]>From his Winnebago studio, Ron Henry interviews artists about their creative process and journey.
https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Website – https://www.williammccarthy.org
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/thewilliammccarthy/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/williamjmccarthy/
]]>From his Winnebago studio, Ron Henry interviews artists about their creative process and journey.
https://www.blackrapidmedia.com
Follow Billy McCarthyWebsite – https://www.williammccarthy.org
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/thewilliammccarthy/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/williamjmccarthy/
]]>More about the book:
As the sweet, polite, and thoughtful Mary Ann Summers from Kansas in the hit series Gilligan’s Island, Dawn Wells created an unforgettable and beloved character that still connects with people fifty years from the show’s debut in 1964. As the “good girl” among the group of castaways on a tiny island, she was often positioned against the glamorous and exotic Ginger Grant, played by Tina Louise, prompting many to ask: Are you a Ginger or a Mary Ann?
Part self-help, part memoir, and part humor—with a little classic TV nostalgia for good measure—What Would Mary Ann Do? contains twelve chapters on everything from how Mary Ann would respond to changes in today’s culture to addressing issues confronting single women and mothers. Anecdotal sidebars also describe fascinating facts and compelling memories from the show, as well as some trivia questions to challenge fans and followers. Illustrated with photographs from Wells’s private collection, this book provides inspiring lessons from TV’s favorite good girl.
More about the book:
As the sweet, polite, and thoughtful Mary Ann Summers from Kansas in the hit series Gilligan’s Island, Dawn Wells created an unforgettable and beloved character that still connects with people fifty years from the show’s debut in 1964. As the “good girl” among the group of castaways on a tiny island, she was often positioned against the glamorous and exotic Ginger Grant, played by Tina Louise, prompting many to ask: Are you a Ginger or a Mary Ann?Part self-help, part memoir, and part humor—with a little classic TV nostalgia for good measure—What Would Mary Ann Do? contains twelve chapters on everything from how Mary Ann would respond to changes in today’s culture to addressing issues confronting single women and mothers. Anecdotal sidebars also describe fascinating facts and compelling memories from the show, as well as some trivia questions to challenge fans and followers. Illustrated with photographs from Wells’s private collection, this book provides inspiring lessons from TV’s favorite good girl.
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It was pretty much silent as they sat together with no conversation except for when the daughter wanted to go to the rest room and leave her for a minute. She told her three times I will be back you'll be ok. Then she left and was back as if she hurried her break not to be gone long. Her mother sat silent when she returned as if she really never knew her daughter left.
I see myself in the mirror with dated floral furniture and a 20 year old photo of Seattle as if this was to keep my spirits high and my mind off of this why i was there -
I can smell the dying mother from the far corner of the room where I stood. I was hoping soon she would be wheeled away to see the doctor so I can take a normal breath again. This is not me in the mirror I manifest cool things and great adventures. I have no more holes in my belt to cinch it any tighter. This is a day to be in the sun that shines through the dirty 18th floor window with its grand view of the city. I have my dog that brings me happiness staying with a friend in Bellevue so I can talk about how to beat this thing. I feel this is not me- this is not my story. When i finally wrap my head around this - It will not be the end - it will be a chapter and short chapter at best."
I see myself in the mirror with dated floral furniture and a 20 year old photo of Seattle as if this was to keep my spirits high and my mind off of this why i was there -
I can smell the dying mother from the far corner of the room where I stood. I was hoping soon she would be wheeled away to see the doctor so I can take a normal breath again. This is not me in the mirror I manifest cool things and great adventures. I have no more holes in my belt to cinch it any tighter. This is a day to be in the sun that shines through the dirty 18th floor window with its grand view of the city. I have my dog that brings me happiness staying with a friend in Bellevue so I can talk about how to beat this thing. I feel this is not me- this is not my story. When i finally wrap my head around this - It will not be the end - it will be a chapter and short chapter at best."
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Learn more at gethitchedgivehope.com
]]>Learn more at gethitchedgivehope.com
]]>
Ron invites friend, former BlackRapid Social Queen, and successful commercial/ wedding photographer LaRae Lobdell to talk about her latest exhibition "Celebration!" showing at Seattle's ACT Theatre. The complete exhibit is 200+ pieces from her 16-month personal project which changed the visual marketing landscape of Seattle theatre. They also discuss how to approach people, LaRae's journey from weddings to commercial photography, and dog bowls!
]]>Ron invites friend, former BlackRapid Social Queen, and successful commercial/ wedding photographer LaRae Lobdell to talk about her latest exhibition "Celebration!" showing at Seattle's ACT Theatre. The complete exhibit is 200+ pieces from her 16-month personal project which changed the visual marketing landscape of Seattle theatre. They also discuss how to approach people, LaRae's journey from weddings to commercial photography, and dog bowls!
]]>Ever wonder what it's like to pick up Led Zeppelin from an airport in Hawaii?
Robert M. Knight will tell you.
Ron welcomes the legendary rock photographer and star of the documentary "Rock Prophecies", Robert M. Knight for a special 60 minute episode. We had to make it that long to fit all of Robert's fantastic stories! Plus special guests Emree Frankiln & Haley Mclean, two amazingly talented musicians leading the charge of Robert's latest project in collaboration with Fender and Guitar Center, "Brotherhood Of The Guitar"
]]>Ever wonder what it's like to pick up Led Zeppelin from an airport in Hawaii?
Robert M. Knight will tell you.
Ron welcomes the legendary rock photographer and star of the documentary "Rock Prophecies", Robert M. Knight for a special 60 minute episode. We had to make it that long to fit all of Robert's fantastic stories! Plus special guests Emree Frankiln & Haley Mclean, two amazingly talented musicians leading the charge of Robert's latest project in collaboration with Fender and Guitar Center, "Brotherhood Of The Guitar"
]]>Wanna learn how to get the best gear AND work on zero sleep? Tune in!
]]>Wanna learn how to get the best gear AND work on zero sleep? Tune in!
]]>This is a must listen for any aspiring business owner!
]]>This is a must listen for any aspiring business owner!
]]>W/ special guest Daphne Schmon, director of "Children of the Wind"
]]>W/ special guest Daphne Schmon, director of "Children of the Wind"
]]>Dan Ballard is an internationally known travel and landscape photographer from Colorado. His images take you on a visual journey to some of the world’s most beautiful and far-reaching corners. Dan has visited nearly 50 countries on five continents around the globe, and his work has attracted the attention and praise of some of the biggest names and companies in the photo industry.
Dan’s images have been on display around the U.S. in museums and galleries, and he has sold images to clients around the globe, including The National Geographic Society. He is proud to be on the Zenfolio Pro Team, and to have strong working relationships with the most trusted names in photography, including SanDisk, ThinkTank Photo, LEE Filters and Really Right Stuff. His images have been published in magazines and calendars, and he has won or been a finalist in numerous prestigious competitions. Large, framed prints of his western work can be found at gift and furniture stores around the country. Dan’s image ”Let ‘er Fly” was recently featured in a Smithsonian Channel episode on what makes an award-winning image.
]]>Dan Ballard is an internationally known travel and landscape photographer from Colorado. His images take you on a visual journey to some of the world’s most beautiful and far-reaching corners. Dan has visited nearly 50 countries on five continents around the globe, and his work has attracted the attention and praise of some of the biggest names and companies in the photo industry.
Dan’s images have been on display around the U.S. in museums and galleries, and he has sold images to clients around the globe, including The National Geographic Society. He is proud to be on the Zenfolio Pro Team, and to have strong working relationships with the most trusted names in photography, including SanDisk, ThinkTank Photo, LEE Filters and Really Right Stuff. His images have been published in magazines and calendars, and he has won or been a finalist in numerous prestigious competitions. Large, framed prints of his western work can be found at gift and furniture stores around the country. Dan’s image ”Let ‘er Fly” was recently featured in a Smithsonian Channel episode on what makes an award-winning image.
]]>