121: The Last Detail with Austin Mann

Thoroughly Considered · 20 Feb 2025 · 50m · Episode 121

What this episode covers

Austin Mann, a landscape and wildlife photographer, discusses his long-term use of the Really Right Stuff BH-40 ball head, explaining how its precision, durability, and thoughtful design have supported his career for nearly two decades. He details specific features like the custom L-brackets, tension controls, and tactile knobs that allow for operation in the dark, and shares an anecdote about shooting Yo-Yo Ma in the Atacama Desert to illustrate the gear's reliability. Mann also touches on the company's niche, utilitarian business model and announces the upcoming opening of his new physical gallery, Maven Gallery, in Wichita, Kansas.

Mentioned

Companies
Really Right Stuff, Gitzo, Peak Design, DJI, Leica
Products
BH-40, Maven Gallery

Other shows on the same ground, closest first.

  • Making It · 50m

    236: Video Moments

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their recent projects, including Jimmy's restoration of an 1893 Winchester rifle and his build of a prop rifle from The Mandalorian, Bob's creation of fire pit tools, and David's first go-kart race. The conversation shifts to a comparison of old versus new technology, with Bob detailing his transition from film to digital cameras and Jimmy's appreciation for the mechanical elegance of antique printing presses. They also touch on the reliability of modern action cameras like GoPro and DJI Osmo, and recommend Hatch Show Print, Zach King's optical illusions, and Ken Burns' Country Music documentary.

  • Making It · 58m

    Episode 191: Heavy metal keeps you young

    David Picciuto discusses his strategy for upcoming craft shows, deciding to focus on a single product line like laser-cut art pieces rather than a variety of items. Jimmy Diresta details the success of his second blacksmithing class, highlighting the importance of community connections and planning for ten classes next year. Bob Clagett shares his progress on a Short Trooper armor project, specifically the design of a posable mannequin capable of holding a weighted rifle, and discusses his YouTube content strategy and upcoming shop renovations.

  • Shop Talk Live · 58m

    STL: MTC-Not how it's always been done

    Hague Haswell and Vic Tesolin of Melbourne Tool Company explain how retailer Timbecon identified a supply gap for premium hand planes and launched MTC to fill it. They detail the design process led by Rowan, focusing on ergonomics for users of all sizes and the decision to use M2 high-speed steel for durability. The conversation highlights specific product innovations, such as the router plane's bevel-down straight blade and the spokeshave's integrated cast handles with cork inlays, which solve traditional issues like chatter and weight. The guests discuss their manufacturing partnership with a precision machine tooling factory and the importance of offering tools that work out of the box for hybrid woodworkers.

  • Making It · 1h 14m

    467: Making Art Into The Sunset

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their recent activities, ranging from Diresta's trip to CES and his transition toward fine art to Picciuto's visit to a Frank Lloyd Wright house and Clagett's update on reshooting his Fusion 360 course. They reflect on aging as makers, the physical toll of manual labor, and the importance of staying active and creative into their later years. The episode also covers practical topics like sourcing materials from Joanne's Fabrics and recommendations for media such as the Hermes documentary and the film The Substance.

  • Making It · 1h 08m

    391: He’s the depressed, mean one

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their recent projects, including Jimmy's PSVR2 holder design process, David's renovation of an 80s side table, and Jimmy's experience at WorkbenchCon. They compare audio equipment like the DJI Wireless Mic and Rode Wireless GO II, and debate the reliability of GoPro versus DJI Osmo action cameras. The conversation also covers software tools like Notion and Blocklayer, and highlights community resources such as Templatemaker.nl.

The summary, chapters and topics are generated from the episode’s audio by this directory, not written by Thoroughly Considered. The episode itself belongs to its publisher.