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Photo Country - Inspiring Stories of Photographers Around the World

Photo Country - Inspiring Stories of Photographers Around the World

By: Rajeev Nedumaran
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 Photo Country is a podcast that explores the lives and stories of photographers from different countries and cultures. Each episode features an interview with a photographer who shares their passion, inspiration, challenges, and tips for capturing the beauty and diversity of the world. Whether you are a professional photographer, a hobbyist, or just curious about the art of photography, Photo Country will take you on a journey to discover how photographers see the world through their lenses.

www.photocountry.coRajeev Nedumaran Art
Episodes
  • Ivan McClellan's Journey Into Black Cowboy Culture - Ep.59

    Ivan McClellan's Journey Into Black Cowboy Culture - Ep.59
    Sep 15 2025
    Uncovering the Legacy of Black Cowboys: An Interview with Ivan McClellanIn the ever-evolving tapestry of American culture, there exist stories that have long been overshadowed or entirely neglected. Yet, photographer Ivan McClellan is capturing and celebrating these narratives through his lens, bringing them into the spotlight. One such story is that of the Black Cowboy—a vibrant and resilient aspect of American heritage that persists today.A Forgotten Chapter in HistoryIn Episode 59 of the Photo Country podcast, Rajeev sits down with Ivan McClellan, an influential photographer whose work has been pivotal in reigniting interest in the culture of Black Cowboys. These cowboys were instrumental during the early days of the Wild West—a fact often missing in mainstream narratives, where iconic figures like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood dominate the imagery.From Kansas to the broader world, Ivan’s journey is as fascinating as the culture he documents. Raised on a patch of land in the city, Ivan experienced both rural and urban lifestyles, unknowingly immersed in a culture that he would later come to champion. His firsthand interactions with the subculture of Black Cowboys began with a simple invitation to a rodeo in Oklahoma. There, Ivan’s perception shifted as he encountered a community rich in tradition and culture, one that blended elements of Black heritage with western life.Breaking Barriers through PhotographyIvan’s introduction to Black Cowboy culture was serendipitous. With a background riddled with diverse photographic experiences—from weddings to commercial shoots—Ivan’s break into this niche was both unexpected and revelatory. He stopped accepting payment for photography, freeing himself to explore and develop his authentic style—characterized by capturing candid, unstaged moments.His project, Eight Seconds, emerged from a desire to document something meaningful, masterfully showcasing the raw, potent beauty of rodeo events. The name signifies the eight-second ride on a bull or bronco necessary to qualify for a score—symbolizing the intense, unpredictable nature of the rodeo.Joy as an Act of RebellionIvan’s work does more than document; it celebrates. He describes the rodeo as a resistance, a joyful rebellion against the oppressive climates of our times. Joy, he argues, is a powerful act of defiance. Gathering at these rodeos, communities find collective excitement and exuberance, challenging those who seek to suppress.A Legacy Carried ForwardIvan’s commitment to documenting this lively subculture extends beyond photography. With the advent of his own series of rodeo events in Portland and Philadelphia, Ivan amplifies the enthusiastic spirit of these gatherings, fostering community and cultural pride—especially among the youth, who he sees as pivotal in carrying forward this legacy.A Glimpse into AuthenticityOne might wonder what Ivan's photographic style uniquely accomplishes. The answer lies in authenticity. His images do not simply capture cowboys in action; they weave a narrative of personal triumph, familial bonds, and cultural heritage. Images of cowboys adjusting their gear, sharing laughs, or preparing for a race offer universal relatability, reaching beyond rodeo enthusiasts to touch anyone who cherishes genuine human connection.ConclusionFor those interested in exploring more of Ivan McClellan's work or supporting the Eight Seconds project, his Instagram account, @eightsecs, offers a gateway into this evocative world. Ivan’s efforts are more than photography—they are a reclamation and celebration of stories that enrich our understanding of American culture.Through his work, Ivan reminds us all that heritage is not just preserved but is actively lived, celebrated, and expanded upon by each new generation. As his lens reveals the captivating reality of Black Cowboys, it also issues a call to recognize and support the diverse narratives that construct our collective history.As always, thanks Apopo Studios for sponsoring this podcast. Check them out, if you are looking for co-working space or a photography studio to shoot portraits, headshots or products.See you in the next one! Do share your feedback if you liked this episode.Thanks for reading Photo Country: Inspiring Stories of Photographers! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Photo Country: Inspiring Stories of Photographers at www.photocountry.co/subscribe
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    42 mins
  • From a Pilot to a Photographer: Matt Jacob's Artistic Journey - Ep. 58

    From a Pilot to a Photographer: Matt Jacob's Artistic Journey - Ep. 58
    Aug 18 2025

    Exploring the World Through the Lens of Matt Jacob

    After a long gap, I am back with another episode. I had recorded this a while back. I had the immense pleasure of chatting with Matt Jacob. He's not just a renowned photographer known for his evocative portraits and vibrant storytelling but also the engaging host of the Mood podcast. With his work showcasing the diverse tapestries of cultures around the globe, Matt joined us to talk about his journey, philosophy on art, and why he believes every photograph is a metaphor waiting to be unraveled.

    A Passion Sparked by Travel

    Matt's passion for photography was ignited through his travels as a pilot. His first career was a childhood dream that took him across the globe, allowing him to discover and record diverse cultures. This curiosity turned into self-expression as he learned to master the camera's technical skills, bringing stories of people and places to life. His love for photography was born from travel, surprise encounters in new places, and the thrill of capturing life through his lens.

    The Bali Connection

    Matt's journey eventually brought him to Bali, a destination that always intrigued him. As a scuba diving enthusiast, his explorations in Indonesia led him to appreciate the diversity of cultures and landscapes, inspiring him to relocate there during the pandemic. Bali offered Matt a space to live, work, and set up artistic operations, including his podcast and photography studio.

    A Stylistic Evolution

    Matt describes his style as "moody," characterized by dramatic lighting and expressions, often focusing on indigenous populations. His photographs are a blend of real moments and crafted compositions, capturing the essence of his subjects. His work straddles both environmental portraiture and more intimate, personal portrayals, drawing inspiration from renowned photographers like Joey L, who deeply influenced his journey.

    Cultural Sensitivity and Storytelling

    Navigating cultural sensitivities is one of the biggest challenges Matt faces in his photography. He stresses the importance of researching and respecting the people and cultures he photographs. Spending time with his subjects before shooting, sharing their stories, and ensuring they have access to the images are crucial steps in his process. The connections made and the experiences shared always take precedence over simply capturing an image.

    The Power of Workshops

    Matt's journey into education and workshops began during the Covid-19 pandemic. As he sought ways to integrate into the photography community, he started offering advice and holding informal sessions. His plans to conduct workshops and photo expeditions aim to not only share his knowledge but also to deepen his own storytelling, focusing on long-term projects that are rich in cultural depth and meaning.

    Podcasting: Sharing the Art of Conversation

    The genesis of Matt's podcast aligns with his love for genuine human connections. Born from Instagram live conversations and the desire to learn from others, the podcast has become a cherished project. Despite the rigorous work involved, from guest research to post-production, Matt finds fulfillment in keeping the art of conversation alive and contributing to the broader photography community.

    Looking Ahead

    As Matt continues to explore photography's vast landscapes, he remains focused on crafting meaningful stories and advancing his expertise, particularly with film photography. His journey over the next few years promises to be an exciting one, woven with artistic endeavors and enriching encounters.

    We hope this glimpse into Matt Jacob's world inspires our listeners as much as it has inspired me.

    Thanks to Apopo Studios for sponsoring this episode. They are a creative co-working space for photographers, designers and entrepreneurs in South Auckland. Don’t forget to visit www.apopostudios.nz - if you are a photographer looking for an affordable studio space or a freelancer looking for a place to work, Apopo is the space for you.

    Stay connected with the Photo Country Podcast for more inspiring stories and enjoy the journey behind the lens with some of the world's most compelling photographers.



    Get full access to Photo Country: Inspiring Stories of Photographers at www.photocountry.co/subscribe
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    34 mins
  • Unscripted Moments: Exploring Photography with Ravi Shankar - Ep. 57

    Unscripted Moments: Exploring Photography with Ravi Shankar - Ep. 57
    Apr 6 2025

    The Art of Composition: A Conversation with Ravishankar

    In the opening episode of Photo Country Season 4, host Rajiv interviews veteran photographer Ravishankar, also known as the 'Wrong Side Rascal' on Instagram. The conversation delves into Ravishankar's journey in photography, which began in 2004, his love for visual composition over technical details, and his experience in street and landscape photography in Singapore. The discussion also explores the influence of cinema on Ravishankar's photography and his transition to portrait photography. Throughout the episode, the two photographers reflect on the importance of serendipity, intent, and the subtractive nature of photography. They conclude by emphasizing the therapeutic and transformative power of the photographic process.

    00:00 The Beauty of Composition

    00:47 Welcome to Photo Country Season Three

    01:03 Introducing Ravishankar: The Wrong Side Rascal

    01:41 Ravi's Photography Journey

    04:44 The Influence of Visual Arts

    13:20 Challenges and Discoveries in Singapore

    17:52 Exploring Portrait Photography

    24:20 The Importance of Composition

    35:08 Capturing the Unexpected

    36:55 The Constraints of Fixed Lens Cameras 39:39 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

    Check out Ravi’s work here:

    https://www.instagram.com/rongsiderascal/

    https://www.flickr.com/photos/fantaphilosophy/



    Get full access to Photo Country: Inspiring Stories of Photographers at www.photocountry.co/subscribe
    Show More Show Less
    42 mins
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