#0026 - Seth Block

The Rotary Spark Podcast

Seth Block brings over five decades of photographic wisdom to this engaging episode, tracing his journey from childhood fascination to becoming an accomplished wildlife photographer. Growing up with a professional photographer grandfather and an encouraging father who recognized his "good eye," Seth developed his craft through meticulous self-teaching—carefully recording camera settings and studying developed photographs weeks later to understand cause and effect.

The conversation explores photography's profound evolution from film to digital. Seth describes his initial skepticism toward digital technology before eventually embracing its advantages while maintaining his commitment to in-camera composition rather than relying on post-processing. His technical insights on camera selection prove valuable for aspiring photographers, emphasizing that while equipment matters, understanding the fundamentals matters more.

Beyond the technical aspects, Seth shares photography's deeper spiritual dimensions. His approach to wildlife photography—tracking eagle families for 15 years, photographing from kayaks, and waiting hours for the perfect moments—demonstrates profound patience and respect for his subjects. "They're not there for our entertainment," he explains about photographing whales. "They're there living, and we're fortunate enough to see them."

Perhaps most compelling is Seth's story about overcoming personal bias—the moment he nearly returned payment for event photos because the subjects didn't match his aesthetic preferences, only to witness the clients' delight in seeing their loved ones captured authentically. This humbling experience taught him that "there's beauty everywhere, and you can't judge."

Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply appreciate thoughtful reflections on creative pursuits, Seth's journey inspires a more mindful approach to seeing and capturing the world. Visit sethblockphotography.com to explore his extensive portfolio, spanning decades of passionate image-making.

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1. #0026 - Seth Block (00:00:00)

2. Welcome to Rotary Spark with Seth Block (00:00:24)

3. Photography Beginnings & Family Influence (00:00:49)

4. Navy Service & Developing a Passion (00:03:45)

5. From Film to Digital Evolution (00:06:39)

6. Camera Recommendations & Finding Your Style (00:09:10)

7. Rules of Photography & Breaking Them (00:15:10)

8. Wildlife Photography & Ethical Considerations (00:20:57)

9. Civic Engagement & Community Involvement (00:27:17)

10. Advice for the Next Generation (00:34:43)