How to Build an Adventure Photography Business
I recently got a chance to sit down and chat all things adventure photography on the Bokeh Photography Podcast. I tried to be super candid about the principles, challenges, and triumphs that define my life as an adventure filmmaker/photographer I’ll walk you through the key insights I shared during the conversation, providing a detailed exploration of topics ranging from time management to the intricacies of adventure lifestyle photography.
However, the best way to get this information is through the podcast so click below to listen to it…
My Episode On The Bokeh Photography Podcast
1. Managing Time for Entrepreneurial Freedom:
Principle of Motivation:
One fundamental principle that guides my adventure photography business is recognizing the ebb and flow of motivation. While motivation can be elusive, the commitment to daily tasks remains unwavering. Whether the muse strikes or not, the discipline to get up every day and get things done is a nonnegotiable aspect of entrepreneurial life. I was recently chatting with my professional songwriter/musician friend Ryan Kinder about this because in this creative industries it’s so easy to want to wait until creativity hits. But, the most sustainable careers on the ones where we can get up and just get to work.
Uplifting Stories as Fuel:
In the realm of adventure filmmaking, my source of motivation extends beyond discipline, otherwise I’d have no joy in this at all. As many of you may know if you follow my work, I always say “outdoor adventure is my passion, storytelling is my purpose”, and I find inspiration in the uplifting stories of hope, joy, and adventure. These narratives not only fuel my creative endeavors but also serve as a reminder of the positive impact storytelling can have on individuals and communities.
Flexibility as a Catalyst:
During the podcast, I also briefly chat about the benefits of freelancing being a wild amount of flexibility. Despite the allure of flexible hours, I try to best to maintain a structured approach to my work, investing the necessary hours to refine my craft continually. I’m not advocating for a hustle culture mindset, since I NEVER produce my best work when I’m burnt out. But, just showing up every day matters and putting in the work is the best advice I can give to build a successful career in this.
2. Entrepreneurial Mindset:
Beyond Photography:
When reflecting on my career, I emphasize that I feel as much of a business owner and marketer as much as a photographer. The ability to navigate the business landscape is integral to sustaining a career in adventure photography. Capturing breathtaking photos is undoubtedly essential, but as an entrepreneur, striking a balance between creativity and marketing prowess is equally vital. It's not just about taking amazing photos; it's about strategically positioning those photos to serve both artistic and business objectives.
Versatility in Video:
I was always a video person first. I cared way more about making films than taking photos but by adopting both in my career has led to a lot of important connections. For some brands, I was mostly a photographer, For others, I was mostly a director. Now, most of my portfolio with the more renowned brands like Patagonia, La Sportiva, Outside, and others, requires me to do both and I think that versatility is key in growing a business.
It simply allows me to provide more services to companies that are looking to hire me. Who do you want, a plumber who can only fix a sink or who can fix anything that relies on your water supply? I like to be the plumber that can do it all.
3. Passion and Purpose in Adventure Lifestyle Photography:
Endless Stories and Individuals:
The allure of adventure lifestyle photography lies in the endless stories and passionate individuals within this niche. From athletes to environmental nonprofits, each project unfolds a unique narrative, contributing to the richness of my portfolio. I talk about this in-depth in the podcast so I won’t go too much into it here.
People and Places:
When I was asked about my favorite things about the adventure photography lifestyle, I brought up the fascinating people involved and the breathtaking places it takes me. Engaging with healthy, happy individuals in the outdoor space and exploring awe-inspiring locations contribute why I love this job.
4. Dispelling Misconceptions about Adventure Photography:
Frequency of Photography:
One common misconception is the assumption that adventure photographers are constantly in the field. Contrary to this belief, I spend only about one week per month taking photos. Entrepreneurship involves diverse responsibilities, from creative direction to editing projects, requiring a balanced allocation of time. Some people that look to me to advice are sometime disappointed to hear I don’t shoot photos all the time, but I explain more in the podcast why I actually love the balance of running the business in addition to just shooting all the time.
Social Media Realities:
The second misconception challenges the notion that a robust social media presence is a prerequisite for success. I’ve been freelancing for over 7 years and I have never been hired from my social media. It’s not as important as you may think in creating connections with brands that want to hire you.
Business as a Positive Force:
The third misconception addresses the perceived negativity surrounding the business side of adventure photography. While the business aspect is undeniably significant, it doesn't have to be a burden. Embracing the business side enhances one's ability to sustain a successful career.
5. Principles for Building a Successful Adventure Photography Brand:
Consistent Project Engagement:
The first principle is rooted in perpetual action. Always be working on something—a photo series, a passion project—ensuring that creative energies are consistently channeled, even during downtime. This commitment to continual creation can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Cultivating a Distinct Style:
Building a successful adventure photography brand necessitates cultivating a distinctive style. The portfolio presented to potential clients should reflect the work one aspires to be hired for. A carefully curated website serves as a powerful tool for showcasing this cultivated style.
Embracing the Business Side:
Success in adventure photography extends beyond artistic prowess. Embracing the business side, including networking with marketing teams, negotiating rates, and providing value to clients, is pivotal. Learning the art of negotiation and the creation of compelling pitch decks further enhances entrepreneurial skills.
Proficiency in Outdoor Sports:
Authenticity in adventure photography is heightened by firsthand knowledge of outdoor sports. Understanding the nuances of various activities not only contributes to authentic storytelling but also establishes credibility within the niche. Think about it, if you want to be a ski photographer… you gotta know how to ski. I give an example in the podcast more about this too if you want to take a listen!
Gradual Progress:
Lastly, it's essential to acknowledge that building a successful adventure photography brand is a journey. Taking it one step at a time allows for measured growth, a deeper understanding of the industry, and the development of a sustainable career.
Next Steps…
All in all, building an adventure photography business is FUN and EXCITING! I’m super grateful for the invitation from the Bokeh Photography Podcast to allow me a platform to unearth some of the secrets of creating a career in this.. As I continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, each revelation and conversation like this one is just a stepping stone toward a future where I can combine my creativity, passion, and business acumen into a healthier, happier life for myself and my loved ones.
Want to Work Together?
Roo is a commercial/documentary filmmaker and photographer based in Boulder, Colorado but travels all around the world for his filmmaking career. He has directed documentaries for Patagonia in California, produced films for Outside Magazine throughout Europe and Africa, camera operated for Netflix in the Rocky Mountain West, photographed among indigenous communities in South America, and has received notable recognition in his hometown of Orcas Island in Washington State for his work telling uplifting stories in the outdoor space.
Let’s chat - reach out and I’ll respond in the next 24-48 hours!
