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Why Self-Portraits Make You a Better Photographer with MARK RODRIGUEZ - Episode 328
24 September 2026

Why Self-Portraits Make You a Better Photographer with MARK RODRIGUEZ - Episode 328

Camera Shake Photography Podcast

About

What can you learn by stepping in front of your own camera? In Camera Shake episode 328, Kersten Luts talks with Mark Rodriguez about self-portrait photography, creative confidence and building images that tell a story.

Mark shares how he develops conceptual photography ideas through word prompts and mind mapping, then brings them to life with lighting, costumes, handmade props and Photoshop compositing. We explore why matching perspective, shadows and light direction matters, how he combines different frames, and when starting again is the best creative decision.

There’s practical photography advice on remote triggers, interval shooting, tethered capture and working between Lightroom and Photoshop. We also discuss the value of photographing yourself, understanding the experience of your subjects, and finding a visual style that feels personal.

Along the way, Mark reflects on grief, humour, criticism and the satisfaction of making something yourself. Whether you’re an amateur, a working professional, exploring videography or starting a photography business, this conversation offers ideas for developing your craft and approaching portrait sessions with greater intention.


Subscribe to Camera Shake for more conversations about photography, filmmaking and creative life, and explore our other photographer interviews for your next dose of inspiration.


#photography #portraitphotography #MarkRodriguez #CameraShakePodcast


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THIS WEEK’S LINKS:


CONNECT WITH MARK RODRIGUEZ


CONNECT WITH MARK RODRIGUEZ (GODRIGUEZ)

Website: https://www.godriguez.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godriguezart/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Godriguezart

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@godriguezart

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@godriguezart

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/godriguezart.bsky.social

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRodriguez

X (Twitter): https://x.com/Godriguezart


JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights: www.camerashakepodcast.com


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CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:

https://www.youtube.com/camerashake


FULL EPISODE 328 ‘Why Self-Portraits Make You a Better Photographer with MARK RODRIGUEZ’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON:


YouTube - https://youtu.be/Hcm3uwnXwyg

Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2Lmfm

Spotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G


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Kersten’s website:

www.kerstenluts.com


Kersten on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/

https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

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