"I’m ready to surrender into the idea that we’re all connected, and that I need to be of service somehow."

"The way we see things changes them, and the things we see change us."

-- Gino Miele

In this episode, Antonio and Ward welcome Gino Miele for an in-depth conversation about the delicate balance between being fully present in a moment and capturing it through photography. Gino shares his experience photographing a lowrider family in New Mexico, where he found himself both immersed in the vibrant scene and mentally juggling the technical aspects of getting the shot. This sparks a broader discussion about the challenge many photographers face: how to fully engage with the scene in front of them while also framing it through the lens. The trio reminisces about their own struggles with this balance, touching on the idea of "photo gods" and how sometimes the most serendipitous moments happen when you least expect them.

The guys continue to explore how photographers can sometimes lose sight of the bigger picture—literally and figuratively—when they’re too focused on the technical details. They discuss the importance of stepping back and really taking in the environment, rather than just capturing it piece by piece, highlighting how each photographer's approach can differ based on their experiences and mindset at the time. They also touch on how this awareness develops with experience, and whether it can be taught or is something that comes naturally with time.

Finally, the group dives into the evolving landscape of photography, particularly the shift from traditional cameras to smartphones. They discuss how this change has opened up new creative possibilities, with Antonio noting how his own reliance on his smartphone has grown as he balances photography with other pursuits like journaling. Gino and Ward reflect on how the simplicity and accessibility of smartphones can free photographers from the burden of gear, allowing them to focus more on the act of seeing. The episode wraps with the three photographers reflecting on how their experiences shape their work, emphasizing the importance of staying open to the unexpected and finding joy in the process, no matter the tools at hand.