We were lucky to catch up with Arnie Watkins recently and have shared our conversation below.

Arnie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start big picture – what are some of biggest trends you are seeing in your industry?

One significant trend that has become increasingly prevalent is the shift in focus from producing meaningful and memorable content to generating rapid, and often more cost-effective, content. This transition is driven by the need for businesses to maintain a constant online presence, fueled by the relentless pace of social media platforms.

From my perspective, this shift has both its advantages and drawbacks. On the one hand, this trend caters to the digital age’s insatiable appetite for fresh content. The constant stream of new content helps brands stay at the forefront of consumers’ minds, fostering a sense of connection and engagement. It’s a response to the current consumer climate, where attention spans are dwindling, and the constant bombardment of media requires brands to stay fresh and relevant.

However, on the other hand, the emphasis on quantity over quality may compromise the depth and resonance of the content being produced. Meaningful content, while taking more time and resources to create, has the potential to create a more significant impact, establishing deeper connections with audiences. This approach allows brands to tell their stories more thoroughly, which in turn, can elevate their brand identity and solidify customer loyalty.

I remember a campaign I worked on a few years back for a renowned outdoor clothing brand. They were preparing for their summer launch, and instead of choosing the route of quick and cheap content, they opted for a meticulously planned and executed photoshoot in the Islands of the Caribbean. The process was lengthy, and the costs were high, but the outcome was unforgettable. The awe-inspiring images not only captured the functionality of the clothing line but also invoked a sense of adventure and resilience. The campaign resonated deeply with their target audience, resulting in record sales that season and substantial growth in brand loyalty.

That experience taught me that while the shift towards quick and cheap content has its place, there is still immense value in creating meaningful and memorable content. It provides an opportunity for brands to differentiate themselves in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

As professionals in the photography industry, we need to adapt to this new trend while also educating our clients about the long-term benefits of investing in quality content. By doing so, we can strike a balance between the demands of the digital age and the enduring power of compelling visual storytelling.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am Arnie Watkins, the founder of Pacific Interlude, and a photographer/creative director who has had the fortune to journey across the globe, capturing visual stories for some of the world’s top brands. My journey into photography was born out of a fascination with visual storytelling and its profound ability to evoke emotions, narrate a tale, and inspire change. This fascination has blossomed into a career that has allowed me to blend art with business, creating visual content that not only enthralls but also sells.

At Pacific Interlude, we provide a wide range of creative services that span from conceptualizing and executing photoshoots to providing comprehensive creative direction for brands. Our primary mission is to help our clients navigate and succeed in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. We do this by crafting content that is timeless, impactful, and perfectly aligns with the unique image and ethos of each brand we work with.

Our edge in this industry lies in our ability to marry our deep understanding of brand aesthetics with our knack for innovative storytelling. We pride ourselves on our capacity to create content that doesn’t just keep up with digital trends but also stands the test of time. Our work isn’t about fleeting impressions but creating lasting memories, a bond between the brand and its audience.

One of the accomplishments I’m particularly proud of is how Pacific Interlude has grown from a small photography studio into a respected creative agency. We’ve managed to carve a niche in a saturated market by focusing on quality, consistency, and by prioritizing the unique needs of each client. However, our success is not measured merely by growth but by the relationships we’ve built and the stories we’ve told along the way.

What I want potential clients and followers to know about us is that we’re more than just a photography service or a creative agency. We’re a team of storytellers passionate about bringing out the best in brands, enabling them to engage with their audience in the most effective and compelling manner. Our commitment to quality, our ability to understand and amplify brand narratives, and our knack for crafting visually striking content is what sets us apart.

At Pacific Interlude, we’re not just capturing images; we’re capturing the essence of a brand, the heart of their story, and that’s what makes our work so fulfilling and impactful.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective strategy for growing our clientele at Pacific Interlude involves three main elements: exceptional client service, a robust online presence, and consistent delivery of high-quality work.

Our client-centric approach ensures we exceed expectations, leading to client referrals and repeat business. A well-curated online presence, including a professional website and active social media accounts, helps us connect with potential clients. Most importantly, our commitment to producing high-quality, impactful content serves as our strongest advertisement, attracting new clients who want the same level of excellence for their brands.

In essence, our growth is rooted in doing great work, treating our clients well, and maintaining visibility in the digital space.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative and an artist is the ability to translate abstract ideas and emotions into tangible visual narratives. It’s a process of exploration, innovation, and connection that never ceases to captivate me.

Each project is like a journey, where I delve into the unique world of a brand or a concept, unravel its essence, and then bring it to life through the lens of my camera. This process of creation is inherently fulfilling, as it’s a blend of challenge, discovery, and ultimately, creation.

But beyond the personal satisfaction of creating, what I find most rewarding is the impact of our work. It’s incredibly gratifying to see how our visual narratives resonate with people, evoke emotions, and even inspire action. Whether it’s helping a brand connect more deeply with their audience or creating imagery that sparks conversations and thought, the ability to make a difference through our creative work is truly the most rewarding aspect of being in this field.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.pacificinterlude.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/pacificinterlude www.instagram.com/watarnie

Image Credits
Photography by @watarnie and @pacificinterlude