a visually curious podcast
An audio journey into
the world of existential
image-making practices.
Hosted by Nick Tauro Jr.
season FIVE episodes
Season 5 Episode 1: Julia Margaret Cameron: Arresting Beauty
Season Five starts off by looking back to the 19th Century. Julia Margaret Cameron was a trailblazing figure in the early days of the medium, whose work is still being celebrated today. I talk with curator Allison Pappas about the current exhibition on view at the Morgan Library and Museum in NYC.
season four Episodes
Season 4 Episode 18: Questions + Answers: Season Finale
I go back to my roots on this episode. Your questions, my answers. A nice way to wrap up my fourth season of the podcast. I am so grateful for all the support and for such a fantastic audience. Thank you!
Season 4 Episode 17: Lucia Rollow: In The Darkroom
In this episode, we dive into the renewed energy around the photographic darkroom—and the magic that keeps people coming back. Lucia Rollow joins us to talk about the Bushwick Community Darkroom, where she's built a vibrant, supportive space for analog photography. We get into the ups, the downs, and everything it takes to keep this kind of creative community thriving.
Season 4 Episode 16: Ron Jude: Look and Listen
In this episode I talk with photographer Ron Jude about his evolving approach to image-making, his connection to place, and how he weaves mystery into his work. We also get into the role of music and sound in his creative process, adding another layer to how he thinks about storytelling. Non-guilty pleasures are also discussed!
Season 4 Episode 15: Mitch Epstein: Power & Glory
For over 50 years photographer Mitch Epstein has been interpreting the breadth and complexity of American life and our relationship with the urban and natural environments via his diverse work. I was excited to talk to this stalwart of contemporary photography, especially about his most recent work "Old Growth."
Season 4 Episode 14: Reuben Radding: Heavenly Arms
In this episode, photographer Reuben Radding talks about hitting the streets of New York with his camera and an open mind, chasing moments full of emotion, energy, and human connection. We get into how his photos reflect both the city and his own inner world, and how making art has become a way to close the gap between himself and others.
Season 4 Episode 13: Anders Petersen: Everyday People
Renowned for his raw, intimate, and deeply humanistic approach to photography, Swedish photographer Anders Petersen has spent decades capturing the lives of outsiders, night dwellers, and everyday people with striking intensity. In this interview, Petersen reflects on his journey and shares insights into his creative process, influences, and the enduring power of human connection.
Season 4 Episode 12: Mike Mandel: Evidence
Thrilled to welcome artist / photographer Mike Mandel to the podcast! We discuss his life in photography, the unique perspectives of California artists, and his collaborations with Larry Sultan, with an extended discussion around the groundbreaking book "Evidence."
Season 4 Episode 11: Alec Soth: Looking Out, Looking In
Alec Soth is one of the most important fine-art photographers working today. Beginning with his groundbreaking projects "Sleeping By The Mississippi" and "Broken Manual" to his most current books like "A Pound of Pictures" and "Advice For Young Artists," For decades Alec has deftly created work of great emotional depth. It was an honor to welcome him to the podcast.
Season 4 Episode 10: Roberta Fuorvia: Trust Your Curator
Roberta Fuorvia is a Napoli, Italy-based independent curator, writer and photo consultant. In this conversation she shares her viewpoints on building community, forging successful collaborations with artists and thinking beyond the standard white walls of the exhibition world. A fun chat with a good friend.
Season 4 Episode 9: Christian Patterson: Time To Save
American artist Christian Patterson is a master of multi-dimensional, photo-based projects. His latest book "Gong Co." is a testament to his creative and intellectual curiosity, not to mention the fortitude to work on a project that spanned almost 20 years. We discuss his journey to photography, his time in Memphis with William Eggleston, and his impressive, unique approach to photo books.
Season 4 Episode 8: Deborah Turbeville: Fashion and Fiction
Deborah Turbeville's work, known for its artistry and its mystery, stood out from the imagery of her male contemporaries like Helmut Newtown and Guy Bourdin. A fascinating discussion with director Nathalie Herschdorfer from the Photo Elysée in Lausanne, Switzerland, all about this enigmatic, female, fashion photographer who burst onto the scene in the 1970s.
Season 4 Episode 7: Lorenzo Castore: Taking Revenge On Time
A wonderful chat with Italian photographer and filmmaker Lorenzo Castore. We discuss how his somewhat ungrounded, early life led him to be the artist he is today. We also discuss the challenges of wrestling with time in our art practice and how we can become victorious, if only temporarily.
Season 4 Episode 6: Arturo Soto: Border Documents
My guest for this episode is Mexico-born, Los Angeles-based photographer Arturo Soto. Our discussion centers on his body of work entitled "Border Documents" which explores the stories and memories of his father, set against the backdrop of the US / Mexico border. A great chat with a thoughtful artist and writer!
Season 4 Episode 5: Photography and Cinema: An Interview with David Campany
I love cinema. I love photography. Why not talk about the commonalities and differences between these two camera-based mediums? My guest David Campany has literally written the book on "Photography and Cinema." A wide-ranging conversation with my first return guest to the podcast.
Season 4 Episode 4: On Alexander Rodchenko: Interview with Aglaya Glebova
Alexander Rodchenko was a 20th Century, Russian Constructivist artist known for his groundbreaking photography. Active in the early days of the Soviet Union, he used unconventional angles and dynamic compositions to redefine how reality was depicted. I speak with author and art historian Aglaya Glebova all about Rodchenko's creative output, as featured in her book "Alexander Rodchenko: Photography In The Time of Stalin."
Season 4 Episode 3: Anthony Vizzari: Vernacular Photography
My guest for this episode in Anthony Vizzari, who has been keeping the spirit of vernacular photography alive. Through his passion for photo booths and other mechanical means of image creation and distribution, Anthony is doing the unglamorous work of keeping the machines and the images made in the public sphere accessible to us all.
Season 4 Episode 2: Ciro Battiloro: Silence Is A Gift
My guest for this episode is Napoli, Italia photographer Ciro Battiloro. Ciro has created a fascinating body of work that centers on the inhabitants of the rough and tumble Sanità neighborhood in his home city. His photographs show a subtle and empathetic eye, while instilling a sense of dignity and grace to his subjects. We talk all about Napoli, a city I have a great fondness for.
Season 4 Episode 1: Jim Goldberg: Coming and Going
Extremely honored to host Magnum photographer Jim Goldberg for the kick off for season 4! Jim is well known for his unique visual approach, combining photographs with written word, collage and more. Whether it's in book form, or on a gallery wall, Goldberg's work is both personal and universal. From "Raised by Wolves" to "Coming and Going" Jim and I discuss the breadth of his work and his life.
season three episodes
Season 3 Episode 22: Joel Meyerowitz: In Living Color
The guest for the FINAL EPISODE OF SEASON THREE really needs no introduction.
I was thrilled to welcome Joel Meyerowitz to the podcast. We talked about his work, his life, his curiosity and his ongoing passion for the medium of photography. A true master and living legend, it was an honor to have him as my guest.
Season 3 Episode 21: Susan Wood: Behind The Scenes
This episode I welcome photographer Susan Wood, who was active in the magazine world in the 1950s through the 2000s, with the focus now on preserving her archive and mounting exhibitions. Our discussion focusses on her career path that included making iconic "behind the scenes" photographs on the set of "Easy Rider" as well as her work with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. A fun chat with a charming lady!
Season 3 Episode 20: Jorge Delgado-Ureña: The Raw Society
An inspiring conversation with Jorge Delgado-Ureña, one of the co-founders of the Raw Society, a worldwide network of photographers, writers, travelers and other creatives. We talk all about travel, photo workshops and the DIY spirit of building a creative community.
Season 3 Episode 19: Lomography: Don't Think, Just Shoot!
For over three decades, the name Lomography has been synonymous with experimental, DIY analogue photography. Started as a group of curious students after the fall of the Berlin Wall, it has grown into a worldwide community and a major source of cameras and film. My chat with Birgit Buchart of Lomography USA covers a lot of Lomo history, innovation and creativity.
Season 3 Episode 18: Michael Grecco: Days of Punk
On this episode, I have a rollicking discussion all about punk / post-punk music as experienced through the camera lens of Michael Grecco. I get to geek out to stories of late nights on stage and backstage in the heady days of the late 1970s and early 80s Boston, MA. Play this one LOUD!
Season 3 Episode 17: Saul Leiter: Subtle Complexity
Saul Leiter was a photographer who captured subtle, quiet moments among the cacophony of New York City from the 1940s through the early 2000s. His color work in particular, is a treasure trove which is currently coming to light. For this episode, I had the wonderful opportunity to chat with Michael Parillo and Margit Erb, who run the Saul Leiter Foundation.
Season 3 Episode 16: The Ephemeral Image: An Interview with Kate Palmer Albers
My guest on this episode is writer and professor Kate Palmer Albers, whose recent book "The Night Albums" explores the impermanence in photographic images; both intentional and unintended. A major shift in how we can think about the life of a photograph, and our own existence as well.
Season 3 Episode 15: On The Precipice: An Interview with Tony Chirinos
An engaging conversation with Miami-based photographer Tony Chirinos. We discuss his photo book "The Precipice" which deals with hospital operating rooms, surgical tools, and hospital morgues. Not as macabre as it sounds, this discussion goes deep into the "theater" of life and death.
Season 3 Episode 14: On Miroslav Tichý: An Interview with Roman Buxbaum
The life and work of photographic enigma Miroslav Tichý is the focal point of today's episode. I am joined by Roman Buxbaum, who runs the Tichý Ocean Foundation, the outlet for an extensive body of work by the eccentric, subversive Czech artist. Roman and I have an informative conversation that sheds light on this mysterious man of photography.
Season 3 Episode 13: Boris Eldagsen: A.I. (Artistic Intelligence)
Boris is at the bleeding edge where technology and fine art meet. He is a photographic artist and "promptographer" who incorporates A.I. into his creative workflow. We discuss the ins and the outs, the good, the bad and the ugly of this new frontier.
Season 3 Episode 12: Jesse Lenz: Everyday Magic
This episode, I welcome photographer and photo book publisher Jesse Lenz to the podcast. We have a high spirited talk about the power of DIY, believing in your work, putting ink to paper, and the value of creating the things you want to see in the world. All this, plus we discuss his forthcoming book, "The Seraphim." Inspiration and positivity abounds.
Season 3 Episode 11: Sergej Vutuc: The Edge of Chaos
Yugoslavia-born, Paris-based artist Sergej Vutuc joins me for a deep conversation about pushing the boundaries with his creative work. Combining sound, live performance, analog film and zine-making, Sergej possesses a singular creative approach that is inspiring to behold.
Season 3 Episode 10: The Enigmatic Ray Johnson: Interview with Ellen Levy
A look at the life and work of a true art world enigma, Ray Johnson. Author Ellen Levy joins me to discuss the reluctant genius, sometimes referred to as "the most famous unknown artist." Collages and mail art and photos and more.
Season 3 Episode 9: On Arthur Tress: Interview with Jim Ganz
Arthur Tress has been a prolific photographer since the mid 1960s. Though he may have flown under the radar when compared to some of his contemporaries, a new retrospective at The Getty Center in Los Angeles aims to change that. I had the pleasure of discussing the "new to me" work of Tress with The Getty's Senior Curator of Photographs, Jim Ganz.
Season 3 Episode 8: Danny Clinch: Greetings from Asbury Park, NJ
Danny Clinch was born "down the shore" in New Jersey. From humble beginnings, he ascended the ladder of rock and roll photography to become one of the top shooters in the world of music. He's photographed everyone from Johnny Cash to Tupac; the Beastie Boys to "The Boss" Bruce Springsteen. This conversation has tons of Jersey references, but you don't gotta be from the Garden State to enjoy!
Season 3 Episode 7: ENCORE: Joan Liftin: A Life In Photography
An encore presentation celebrating the life of Joan Liftin, who passed away earlier this year. We had a wonderful conversation back in season one. Sharing this as the dust settles from my recent trip to Paris Photo 2023.
Season 3 Episode 6: Penumbra Foundation: Alternative Processes
This episode I welcome the Executive Director of the Penumbra Foundation and self-described iconoclast, Geoffrey Berliner to the podcast. We have a lively chat about photography's past (as well as its present and future), alternative processes and putting artists first!
Season 3 Episode 5: Yolanda Cuomo: Design Revelations
A fun, New Jersey style chat with book designer and creative force of nature, Yolanda "Yo" Cuomo. We discuss her start in the publishing world, her work with Marvin Israel, and her stellar photo book design work for Paolo Pellegrin, Sylvia Plachy, Edward Keating and Diane Arbus. Lots to dig into here!
Season 3 Episode 4: Brian Griffin: Heaven Up Here
Legendary British photographer Brian Griffin joins me for an enjoyable chat about his career, especially his music / album cover work with such luminaries as Depeche Mode and Echo & The Bunnymen. What an honor to speak with a living legend of music photography.
Season 3 Episode 3: Giancarlo Roma: Life in a Photographic Family
My guest for this episode is writer Giancarlo Roma. Not only is he the son of noted photographer Thomas Roma, and the grandson of Lee Friedlander, he also manages the photo book imprint Haywire Press. A fun conversation about growing up surrounded by photography!
Season 3 Episode 2: Tim Carpenter: Photographic Digressions
A nice conversation with photographer and writer Tim Carpenter. Tim's book "To Photograph Is To Learn How To Die" is available now and is well worth the read. This episode is for all the existential photographers out there... you know who you are.
Season 3 Episode 1: Stefan Sagmeister: Now Is Better
Season Three starts off with a bang! Legendary graphic designer Stefan Sagmeister joins me for a great discussion about Werner Herzog, creative bravery, working hard, and how today might just be better than you think.
season two Episodes
SEASON TWO FINALE! Mediations: Interview with Susan Meiselas
Magnum photographer and true master of the medium Susan Meiselas joined my for a nice chat to discuss her lifetime of work, as featured in her traveling exhibition "Mediations." We talked about many of her iconic images and series, including "Carnival Strippers" as well as her noteworthy work in a Nicaraguan war zone. Such an honor to speak with a true giant of photography.
SEASON TWO Episode 21: Ravens & Red Lipstick: Interview with Lena Fritsch
A great chat with Lena Fritsch, all about Japanese photography after World War 2. Some familiar names pop up, but we also discuss unsung heroes and some new stars of the Japanese world of photography. It was a pleasure to speak to Lena, who wrote the book "Ravens & Red Lipstick: Japanese Photography Since 1945" published by Thames & Hudson.
SEASON TWO Episode 20: No Camera Required: Interview with Lauren Richman
What constitutes a photograph? In its purest form, photography is literally "writing with light." A camera is not necessarily mandatory for creating photographic images. I discuss the world of cameraless photography with Lauren Richman, who curated an exhibit called "Direct Contact" at the Eskenazi Museum of Art in Bloomington, Indiana.
SEASON TWO Episode 19: Show Your Work
An overview of the myriad ways to get your artwork in front of an audience. Get your work seen without losing your shirt or your self-respect! Some frank talk about the pros and cons of dealing with galleries, competitions and portfolio reviews, all with a healthy does of DIY enthusiasm to help you launch your artwork out into the world...and maybe even make a bit of money in the process.
SEASON TWO Episode 18: Berlin Ghosts: Jason Langer
The second installment of my two-part Berlin photo book conversations. This time I welcome photographer Jason Langer, who has a striking new book out, simply titled "Berlin." We have a great talk about loss, pain, death, religion, joy, sex and everything in between. This was a really insightful chat, I hope you enjoy it.
SEASON TWO Episode 17: Berlin Nights: Christian Reister
This is part one of a two episode "Berlin Books" discussion. A wonderful chat with German photographer Christian Reister. Christian published his photo book "Berlin Nights" with Hoxton Mini Press in 2018, and I thought it'd be a great contrast to the second book to be discussed in my next episode. We chatted about music, Lomography, New York as well as one of my favorite cities, Berlin, Germany. A fun talk, I hope you enjoy as much it as I did!
SEASON TWO Episode 16: Off Limits! Ethical Dilemmas in Photography
Where do you draw the line when you decide to take a photograph? What subjects or approaches are off limits? What are the legal limits and obligations that a photographer faces when making photographs in public? When is consent required? All of these questions and more in this episode.
SEASON TWO Episode 15: Frank Ockenfels 3 / Rockstar Photographer
This episode features a rollicking interview with the great entertainment / music photographer, Frank Ockenfels 3. You've probably seen his work everywhere. He's shot everyone from the cast of The Walking Dead to rock legend David Bowie. Plenty of inspiration to found in Frank's decades of work.
SEASON TWO Episode 14: Blur / Flou
Pauline Martin, curator from the Photo Elysee Museum in Lusanne, Switzerland is my special guest for this episode. We discuss the history of blur or "flou" (the French term) which is a more accurate name for the soft, blurriness, out of focus, motion blur we often find in a photograph. A nice discussion that coincides with an exhibition of the same name that opens at the Photo Elysee on March 3rd.
SEASON TWO Episode 13: Michael Ackerman: Intuition & Chaos
It was a true thrill to be able to talk with photographer Michael Ackerman. His deeply thoughtful approach to his work, and his dedication to his art is an inspiration to me. A true meeting of the minds.
SEASON TWO Episode 12: Art & Fear
A solo episode focussing on the subject of fear: how it affects our creative process, where it comes from, what it looks (and feels) like and how to disarm it. The book "Art & Fear" is the catalyst for this rambling thought flow!
SEASON TWO Episode 11: On Ansel Adams: Interview with Becky Senf
Love him or not, you know the work of Ansel Adams. Let's explore why he is so important to the history of the medium, and so popular with the viewing public. A convincing conversation with photo curator Becky Senf of the Center for Creative Photography in Tucson, Arizona.
SEASON TWO Episode 10: Ed Ruscha: Parking Lots & other delights
A look at one of the titans of American art in the late 20th century. Photography has always been integral to the work of Ed Ruscha. We'll focus on one specific series that is an example of his typological approach to image making. Also, Los Angeles rolls up its sleeves and takes on New York for the title of greatest American art scene.
SEASON TWO Episode 9: Rick Schatzberg: Boys to Men
An interview with photographer Rick Schatzberg, centering on his late(er) journey to serious photography, his studying for an MFA in his 50s and the publishing of his book "The Boys." A couple of middle-aged, NYC suburban guys talk about life, friendship and loss, all seen through the medium of photography.
SEASON TWO Episode 8: Lee Friedlander: American Monuments
A look at an important body of work from Lee Friedlander. Created in the 1970s, "The American Monument" is still relevant to today's viewers. We'll also take a "Worth A Thousand Words" closer look at one specific photograph from this series.
SEASON TWO Episode 7: Todd Hido: Everything Is Illuminated
A wonderful talk with a master photographer! Todd Hido graciously shared the story of his personal photographic journey with me, as well as his thoughts on art, life and hope. From house hunting to staying optimistic in a troubling world, Todd always looks for the light. This is a longer than usual episode, but it's worth every second.
SEASON TWO Episode 6: Death and Photography
The subject of death has been a constant throughout the history of photography. This episode we discuss the many ways death has been represented (both literally and metaphorically) in photographs. We'll look at the past practice of post-mortem and mourning photography, as well as ponder the words and images of more contemporary writers and image-makers. This is a special "Day of the Dead" episode.
SEASON TWO Episode 5: Sibylle Bergemann: Walls and Windows
A wonderful discussion about the life and work of (East) German photographer Sibylle Bergemann. My guest is Ina Schmidt-Runke, a curator from the Kicken Gallery in Berlin. Ina enlightens me on the complex world that Bergemann found herself in, living and creating art behind the Berlin Wall during the days of the Cold War.
SEASON TWO Episode 4: Bruce Davidson: Take A Ride on the Subway
This episode we take a look at the classic 1986 photo book "Subway" by Bruce Davidson. A time capsule of "old" New York City and a monumental photographic study of urban life, all steeped in deeply saturated colors. Part of this episode includes a "Worth A Thousand Words" discussion about one particular image from the book.
SEASON TWO Episode 3: Aline Smithson: Positives and Negatives
This episode I welcome Aline Smithson to the podcast. Aline is the driving force behind Lenscratch, a fantastic online showcase of contemporary photography, in all its varied glory. She is also a prolific photo-based artist who delves into the world of analogue processes in her inspiring, personal artwork. A great chat!
SEASON TWO Episode 2: Wim Wenders: Still Photographs and Moving Pictures
Famed German filmmaker Wim Wenders is also a well-respected still photographer. A recent purchase of the book "Wim Wenders: Instant Stories" is the impetus for this episode, where we'll explore the crossing paths of still photography and moving pictures in his decades-spanning career. We'll also delve into his films "Alice in the Cities" and "Palermo Shooting" both of which feature still photography as an integral part of the storyline.
SEASON TWO Episode 1: "William Klein: Yes" with David Campany
Season Two kicks off with a great interview with curator and writer David Campany. David curated the current William Klein exhibition at the International Center of Photography in New York City. We discuss the inspiring life and work of Klein in this lively conversation.
season one episodes
Episode 24: Representing the 505 with Nathaniel Paolinelli (Season One Finale)
We wrap up season one with a great chat with Albuquerque-based street shooter Nathaniel Paolinelli. Discover the true grit of an original 505 photographer.
Episode 23: Jim Bidgood
A lively discussion about the life and legacy of a gay photography master and underground filmmaking legend.
Episode 22: Long-Term Projects
The value of taking your time when working on your creative projects. Recorded from the side of the highway.
Episode 21: Joan Liftin: A Life In Photography
A wonderful conversation with photographer, editor and teacher Joan Liftin. So many great stories!
Episode 20: Worth A Thousand Words: Mark Cohen
Commentary and analysis about this intriguing photograph. The next episode in an ongoing series.
Episode 19: Creative Envy
An interview with Ward Andrews, a creative thinker, teacher and consultant. Discover ways to deal with envy in your creative practice.
Episode 18: Daido Moriyama
My admiration and respect for the life and the work of Japanese photographer Daido Moriyama.
Episode 17: Exploring New Directions In This Podcast
Giving my listeners what the ask for! This podcast would be nothing without you, so here is to new directions.
Episode 16: Roberto Rosales: Empathy in Photography
An interview with photojournalist Roberto Rosales. Empathy and moral judgements while making photos.
Episode 15: Worth A Thousand Words: Sally Mann
Commentary and analysis about this evocative photograph. The third episode in an ongoing series.
Episode 14: Daniel Milnor and Me
A re-sharing of a podcast interview from 5 years ago. A conversation with "Creative Evangelist" Daniel Milnor.
Episode 13: Route 66
Exploring the myths and realities of life on Route 66, with an emphasis on the work of photographer Edward Keating.
Episode 12: Improvisation
The value of incorporating improv into your life, and saying "yes" to the world through your photography.
Episode 11: Thoughts On Beauty
What is beautiful, what is ugly? Can you have one without the other? Is it in the eye of the beholder?
Episode 10: Worth A Thousand Words: Richard Avedon
Commentary and analysis about this iconic photograph. The second episode in an ongoing series.
Episode 9: Japan. Photo. Sex.
The complicated confluence of sex and photography in the work of Nobuyoshi Araki and Yurie Nagashima.
Episode 8: Photographic Discoveries
The stories behind Vivian Maier, Eugene Atget, "The Mexican Suitcase" and Mike Disfarmer.
Episode 7: New Mexico in Photography
New Mexico as a hotbed of photography. Notable images and image makers.
Episode 6: Why People Photograph
Finding validation and consolation in the words of photographer Robert Adams.
Episode 5: Suspicious Devices
When is a camera considered dangerous? When is a photographer seen as a threat?
Episode 4: Photo Books and Zines: Do It Yourself!
A lively rant about the "hows" and "whys" of putting out your own photo books and zines.
Episode 3: Worth a Thousand Words: Diane Arbus
Commentary and analysis about this iconic photograph.
The first episode in an ongoing series.
Episode 2: What Does A Photograph Hold?
Let's explore the intangible things that lie below the surface of every photograph.
Episode 1: Patron Saint - Robert Frank
A deep dive into the photographic and film work of the late, great Robert Frank.
About the podcast
Your Host: Nick Tauro Jr.
I started this podcast so I could have a place to share my thoughts in a format that allowed for deeper contemplation and conversations. It is my hope that my discussions and interviews are enlightening and inspiring to those of you who are on a journey to create meaningful art, whatever your medium.
Questions or comments?
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