We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Austin Keith. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Austin below.

Austin, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the story of how you went from this being just an idea to making it into something real.

Time freedom is a major factor when it comes to building a new career. Before Photography I worked as a professional barber is Los Angeles. Even though I was ready for a transition, having stable work and flexibility is what allowed me to take steps forward with photography. Barbering afforded me my first camera, a schedule I could manipulate, conversations with interesting people to spark inspiration, access to models so I could practice photography skills, and a stable income while I learned the business side of being a photographer.

Once I felt comfortable with a camera, I knew that I wanted to work in outdoor spaces, specifically within the rock climbing community. Thanks to playing it safe with barbering, I had just enough saved up to not need stable income for one year… but only if I could remove rent from my budget. To maximize my free time and minimize my expenses, I decided to move into a van. Ultimately, this was the decision that allowed me to travel and build a real photography portfolio.

The logistics will look different for everyone trying to break into a new industry. The key is to stay patient, be consistent, and set yourself up for success.

Austin, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My main goal for the business was to work exclusively in outdoor lifestyle and adventure photography. Quickly, I realized that can be a difficult road. While it is still a part of the work I do, I’ve expanded my scope. People are the core idea behind my photography. So wether I’m photographing a business owner in their shop, or a climber 1000ft in the air, it’s the people themselves that create a sense of fulfillment and purpose in the work. Finding your deepest motivations for whatever you pursue, can help you expand or refine what you’re offering. This will help you provide the most value to clients, and build longevity for yourself.

On commercial jobs a photographer is usually the paint brush, you need to be technically solid to help bring a creative teams vision to life. For editorial jobs you typically have more freedom and flexibility to execute your own vision. Being able to provide both of these services for clients is something I’m very proud of.

At the end of the day, it’s your relationships with people that will get you where you want to go. Whether it’s a potential client or a subject you’re photographing, it’s the human connection that really matters.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

Build a CRM for your business. There are a lot of options available, so pick whatever suits your style best. You don’t want to annoy your clients with too many updates, you also don’t want them to forget about you. A good CRM helps you keep track of when it’s appropriate to get in touch.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

There is a book called “Profit First”. It does a great job helping you structure your finances in a way that benefits you and your business. Being a creative is great but it’s much better if you’re able to live comfortably at the same time.

I’m constantly going through print and online articles, you never know where you’ll find new inspirations. Kinfolk, local Denver magazine “5280”, and cereal are some of my favorites. This works for me much better than scrolling on social media. Social media has had the opposite effect on my creativity, so mostly I try to avoid it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.austinkeithphoto.com/
• Instagram: @austinkeithphoto
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-keith-242792a5/

Image Credits

All images taken by me.