When Hobbies become Art: The Deeper Impact of Photography and Storytelling - Rio Helmi, E051

The MOOD Podcast

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In this episode I talk with Rio Helmi, an Indonesian photographer and writer. Rio has captured Asia's diverse landscapes and cultures since 1978. His work has featured in major publications like Time and Vogue, and he has exhibited globally in cities such as Bali, Madrid, and San Francisco. Based in Bali for over 4 decades, Rio has spent years documenting the interaction between indigenous peoples and their environment. He has published several photographic books, including "Memories of the Sacred" and "Popo Danes – Bali Inspired," and has made many contributions to platforms such the Huffington Post.
In my conversation with him we explored his rich and diverse journey in photography, his unique teaching philosophy, and how his Buddhist practice influences his art. Rio shares compelling stories from his extensive travels, offering deep insights into the art of mindful photography and the importance of connecting with one's subjects.

What you'll take away from this episode:

• Mindful Photography: Understanding the importance of mindfulness in photography and how it enhances the quality and depth of your work.
• Cultural Connection: The skill of deepening connections with subjects and improving storytelling.
• Teaching Philosophy: A unique approach to teaching photography, emphasizing self-awareness and empathy.
• Personal Stories: Insights from Rio's personal anecdotes about his early life, travels, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.
• The Role of Spirituality: Integration of certain beliefs into photography and teaching, promoting a holistic approach to the art.
• Impact of Digital Evolution: Rio's perspective on the shift from analog to digital photography and its implications for artistic creativity.
• AI and Photography: A discussion on the rise of AI in photography and its potential effects on the authenticity of visual storytelling.

Find Rio's work on his website: https://riohelmi.com/
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Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

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Chapters

1. The Power of Photography and Storytelling (00:00:00)

2. Cultural Diversity in Photography (00:10:08)

3. The Art of Photography and Vision (00:25:31)

4. Photography, Empathy, and Digital Transition (00:39:52)

5. Photography and The Furture of Social Media (00:51:24)

6. Myths and Artistry Standards (01:03:35)

7. Importance of Aesthetics and Inspiration (01:10:09)

8. Finding Inspiration Beyond Photography (01:18:03)