Matt Rutter’s Blog
Welcome to my corner of the internet where I’ll share my mix of photography, creative experiments, and the random musings that pop into my head. Some posts dive into capturing moments in Cleveland or on the road, others explore ideas, experiences, and curiosities that inspire my work. Think of it as part visual diary, part creative outlet. Always authentic, always in progress.Finding the Right Cleveland Photographer Doesn’t Have to be Hard
Searching for a Cleveland photographer near me? Forest City Collective connects you with 300+ local wedding, newborn, family, and event photographers across Northeast Ohio.
Il Rione: A Standout for New York-Style Pizza in Cleveland
Il Rione isn’t just another pizza shop, it’s a Cleveland favorite serving some of the best Neapolitan-style pies in the city. In this review, I’ll share my experience, from the perfectly blistered crust to the balanced, high-quality toppings.
What’s in My Camera Bag: Real Estate Photography
Real estate photography requires more than just a wide-angle lens. In this post, I share what’s in my camera bag, how I use stacking for balanced exposures, and why I keep flash subtle for natural results.
The Complete Guide to Real Estate Photography: Residential & Commercial
Professional real estate photography is one of the most effective ways to sell home and showcase commercial properties in Cleveland. In this guide, I share my full workflow to help you understand how to capture and deliver high-quality images that make listings stand out.
What’s in My Camera Bag: Pet Photography
Pet photography requires flexibility, so I’ve built a lightweight, travel-ready camera bag that doubles as a portable studio. In this post, I break down my complete kit, including camera, lens, lighting, backdrops, and accessories, that works just as well for portraits and headshots.
We Need to Talk About Photography Shorthand
We need to talk about photography shorthand. The safe, easy shots that perform well but don’t push us forward. They’re not wrong, but they can’t be the whole story. Here’s why moving beyond shorthand matters for Cleveland.
Canon R6 Mark II Settings: My Complete Setup
The Canon R6 Mark II is an incredibly versatile camera, but getting the most out of it comes down to how you set it up. In this guide, I share my personal R6 Mark II settings for different shooting scenarios, street, concerts, pets, and landscapes, along with tips like back button focus, custom modes, and exposure bracketing that help me stay creative and consistent.
Announcing [kya-roh-SKOO-roh]: A limited edition Photography Zine
People told me silhouettes were “my thing.” That’s why I created [kya-roh-SKOO-roh], a limited edition black & white photography zine that explores chiarascuro. Pre-orders are open now through September for $10.
What’s in My Camera Bag: A Photographer’s Guide
Curious about what’s in my camera bag? This guide breaks down the gear I rely on most., plus how I adapt my setup for pet photography, street photography, concerts, and more. A practical, no-nonsense look at what keeps me ready whenever the moment strikes.
Top Fall Photoshoot Locations in Cleveland (2025 Update)
Cleveland comes alive in autumn. From Metroparks overlooks to hidden city gems, here are the best fall photoshoot locations in Cleveland for engagements, family portraits, and golden-hour sessions, with insider tips for parking and peak color.
Searching for the Best Pizza in Cleveland
Cleveland’s pizza scene is growing fast, with everything from Neapolitan wood-fired pies to foldable New York slices. This interactive Cleveland Pizza Map is my ongoing project to track, taste, and review the city’s best spots. Complete with links to full reviews and recommendations by style.
The Most Instagrammable Spots in Cleveland
Cleveland is full of photo-worthy spots, whether it’s Lake Erie sunsets, vibrant murals, or iconic landmarks. This guide maps out the most Instagrammable places across the city, perfect for locals and visitors alike.
Don’t Look Back in Anger: Oasis Live 25 in Dublin
From the first chords of Hello to a firework-filled Champagne Supernova, Oasis’ Live 25 show in Dublin was pure magic. Here’s the full setlist, the wild crowd moments, and why this concert was the ultimate payoff for longtime fans.
2 days in Belfast: History, Pubs, and Grub
Belfast surprised us in every way. In just two days, we explored its troubled history on a Black Cab tour, visited the Titanic Museum, and discovered some of Ireland’s best pubs and restaurants.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: 7 Days on the Machame Route
I didn’t plan to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. But over seven days, I found myself hiking through jungle, desert, and ice—with strangers, who became family—facing altitude, exhaustion, and doubt. This is the story of how the mountain let me through.
How I Trained for Kilimanjaro (and What Helped me at 19,000 Feet)
I wasn’t a hiker, but I trained like one. Here’s how zone-based cardio, strength workouts, and mobility drills helped me summit Kilimanjaro—and what actually mattered when the air got thin.
Ultimate Kilimanjaro Packing List: What I Brought
Planning a Kilimanjaro climb in July? Here's the complete packing list I used—what to wear, what to bring, what to rent, and why lighter is better when you’re heading to 19,000 feet.
Has Cleveland Lost Its Edge?
Is Cleveland sacrificing its unique grit and art deco heritage for a "pretty" but bland image? This unpopular opinion explores how the city might be losing its edge.
8 Tips for Concert photography
If you’re gearing up for your first gig or want to improve your live music shots, these insider tips—on gear, settings, etiquette—will help you nail every moment with confidence and avoid the mistakes I made.
How to Edit for Instagram
In this post, I share my workflow for creating cohesive, eye-catching Instagram photos, from tweaking VSCO presets to building a fast, consistent Lightroom process that reflects my unique vision.