The recent Vanity Fair portraits by Christopher Anderson sparked an unprecedented reaction across the creative world. Some called them powerful. Others called them "bad photos."

In this episode of Beyond the Image, James Patrick breaks down why that criticism reveals more about viewer expectations than photographic quality. From extreme close-ups and intentional lighting choices to the role of honesty, narrative, and authorship, this conversation explores what actually defines a successful photograph.

We unpack why photography is a form of storytelling, why not every image is meant to flatter, and why some of the most important photographs in history are uncomfortable to look at. The episode also examines what this moment says about AI, creative intent, and the ethical decisions that still separate human-made work from generated imagery.

This is not political commentary. It's photographic commentary.

https://jamespatrick.com/

Photographers… this may shock you — but not everyone is going to like your work. And sometimes, the loudest critics are other photographers.

In this episode of Beyond the Image, James Patrick breaks down why criticism from other creatives often has nothing to do with your talent and everything to do with ego, insecurity, and misplaced comparison.

You'll learn how to tell the difference between constructive feedback and noise, why other photographers don't get to decide your value, and how to stay focused on what actually matters — creating work you're proud of and serving the clients who hire you.

If you've ever dealt with trolls, drive-by comments, or industry shade, this episode is your reminder that community beats competition, ego doesn't pay the bills, and not everyone is supposed to like your work.

https://jamespatrick.com/

In this episode of Beyond the Image, James Patrick takes a direct, professional look at one of the most polarizing conversations in the photography world: ethical pricing. After a viral post claimed that "$2,000 for 100 photos is unethical," the industry erupted into yet another round of pricing debates, judgment, and misinformation.

James breaks down why these arguments happen—and more importantly, why they're built on a limited, inaccurate understanding of how photography pricing, usage, licensing, and value-based business models actually work.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why "dollars per photo" is the wrong way to price your work

• How usage, reach, and client impact determine true value

• How experience, overhead, and production level shape sustainable pricing

• Why shaming photographers for their rates is the real unethical behavior

• A clear framework for building a profitable, sustainable photography business

• How commercial photography pricing differs from family, portrait, and lifestyle work

• How understanding licensing transforms your earning potential

Perfect for:
Photographers, creative entrepreneurs, commercial shooters, brand photographers, content creators, and anyone looking to strengthen their business, pricing strategy, and professional mindset.

If you've ever struggled with what to charge—or felt pressure from internet strangers telling you your rates are wrong—this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you've been missing.

https://jamespatrick.com/