Becoming a Photographer
Military Journeys to Capturing the World Through a Lens
Photography is more than just a craft; it’s a way of telling stories, capturing moments, and creating lasting impressions. For me, becoming a photographer wasn’t a straight path, but rather a journey filled with experiences that shaped my perspective and approach to capturing the world around me. As an automotive and travel photographer, I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredible brands, including Four Seasons Resorts, Vessel Bags, and several automotive names, but my journey truly began years before I picked up my first professional camera.
The Road Less Traveled
My story starts with time spent in the U.S. Army, where I traveled the globe and experienced a variety of cultures, landscapes, and unique perspectives. Those years weren’t about photography, but they were about exposure, exposure to new environments, people, and moments that sparked something in me. During my time in service, I was constantly surrounded by breathtaking scenes, sunrises over distant horizons, dynamic cityscapes, and raw human emotion in various situations. These experiences lit a fire inside me, and I found myself reaching for a camera to capture these fleeting moments whenever I could.
While the Army gave me a unique lens through which to view the world, it also taught me discipline, attention to detail, and adaptability, traits that are essential for any photographer. I learned to approach each situation with focus, whether it was preparing for a mission or capturing an authentic, raw image. The military, in many ways, prepared me for the world of photography, where being able to stay present and capture fleeting moments with precision is key.
Transitioning from Soldier to Photographer
After my time in the Army, I decided to follow my passion for visual storytelling. I took my first steps into photography not by going straight into professional work but by dedicating time to learning. I studied the basics of photography to include composition, lighting, and exposure. I also spent time experimenting with different styles, but it was clear that two things stood out to me, automotive photography and travel photography.
As an avid car enthusiast, the sleek curves and raw power of automobiles always fascinated me, specifically Porsches. I loved capturing the dynamism of vehicles in motion, the intricate details, and the way light interacted with metal and design. Simultaneously, my travels had instilled in me a deep love for the world around me, its landscapes, architecture, and cultures. Travel photography allowed me to express the beauty I had seen in so many corners of the world, whether it was the quiet serenity of a remote location or the hustle and bustle of a city skyline.
Building My Portfolio and Working with Brands
To turn my passion into a profession, I knew I needed to invest in my skills and my portfolio. I began by capturing local cars and landscapes, building a body of work that showcased my versatility in both automotive and travel photography. I leveraged my social media presence to connect with potential clients and collaborated with other photographers and creatives to gain exposure. Slowly, but surely, my work started to catch the attention of large brands.
I found myself working with Four Seasons Resorts, where I had the opportunity to capture the luxury and elegance of their destinations around the globe. Working with Vessel Bags allowed me to blend the artistry of product photography with the adventure of travel, creating images that told the story of both the brand and its clientele. And of course, collaborating with automotive brands has been a dream come true. Capturing the essence of speed, power, and design in high-end automobiles is an exciting challenge.
The Process of Capturing Moments
One of the most important things I’ve learned over the years is that photography is not just about having the right equipment, it’s about being in the right place at the right time. The best images are often those that feel spontaneous, that capture real emotion or an unexpected moment. When it comes to automotive photography, I focus on the vehicle’s design, ensuring that each curve, line, and detail stands out. I like to experiment with lighting, sometimes using natural light and other times introducing creative lighting techniques to add depth and drama.
In travel photography, the goal is to tell a story of a place. I capture not just the landscape, but the people, the culture, and the atmosphere. It’s about evoking a feeling in the viewer, making them feel as though they’re right there with me, experiencing the location through my lens.
The Future of Photography
As I continue to grow as a photographer, I remain excited about the opportunities to collaborate with brands and explore new avenues in both automotive and travel photography. I believe that photography, at its core, is about connecting with people and sharing experiences. It’s not just about capturing images, it’s about making people feel something.
Looking back at my journey from the Army to becoming a photographer, I’ve learned that photography is a lifelong pursuit. It’s a constantly evolving process, and I’m always seeking to improve my skills and push the boundaries of what I can capture. For anyone looking to become a photographer, my advice is simple, start where you are, capture what inspires you, and never stop learning. The world is full of incredible stories waiting to be told, all through your lens.