Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Derek Nielsen. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Derek thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

In 2016, I was standing at the base of one of the great volcanoes inside Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, just after spending the day with wild Mountain Gorillas when I had the stark realization I had to do more with my photography. I was so emotionally moved by the experience I had to find a way to use my skills as a photographer to help protect this planet. To this point, I had been traveling the world collecting beautiful images and selling them as fine art prints but was doing nothing to give back. It dawned on me the world doesn’t need another conservation organization. The ones that exist need money and support. I ended up finding several organizations across the globe doing outstanding work in the regions I had been traveling to. Now, I donate 10%-15% of every print sold to help these organizations. Last year I helped raise over $100,000 for environmental causes.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a self-taught nature and wildlife photographer living in Chicago. After traveling to all seven continents, I have a fairly extensive library of fine art images I sell to support conservation organizations worldwide. Because of my extensive travels, I have seen firsthand the threat our planet faces from climate change and a growing population. I sell large format, luxury fine art prints to collectors worldwide using the best fine art printing techniques and quality, sustainably sourced frames available in the market today. I charge a premium for my product, but it’s worth it. Not only do I blow my clients away with the final product, but creating a premium product has allowed me to donate more significant sums of money to the organizations I support.

Last year I teamed up with Ndifo Safari, a Tanzanian safari company locally owned by Steven Ngowi, to help raise awareness of the various environmental and human resource issues his country faces. He operates one of the only Tanzanian-owned safari companies in his county. Our joint mission is to use ecotourism to raise awareness of the previously mentioned issues while continuing to support the conservation organization, The Gabby Wild Foundation, with my fine art sales of wildlife I photograph in Africa. Last year Ndifo Safari helped build schools, purchase supplies for schoolchildren, and started a water project bringing fresh water to a local village outside of Arusha where until then had to walk 20 kilometers every day for water.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Networking has really helped build my reputation in the photography and conservation industries. The more people I can surround myself with who are trying to make the planet a better place to live for all creatures, the better. I draw such inspiration from motivated and successful people who also make giving back a considerable part of their life. As for my reputation in the photography space, a big factor for my notoriety has come from entering and winning competitions, supporting other artists in collaborations, and continually fine-tuning my skills as an artist. The work has to be strong but with so many talented artists out there it really pays to network so more eyes can see your work.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

My entire photography career is one big pivot. From its conception to the present day, I have had to find ways to adjust to advancing technologies, algorithm changes on social media, and changing behaviors of animals due to climate change or human encroachment. Photography is so much more than taking pretty pictures. If you want it to succeed as a business, you must treat it like one. I started out in a totally different career as an exercise specialist. I learned from my aging clients early on that life is short. If you can find a way to make money doing what you love, then do it. Don’t waste time thinking about it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dereknielsen.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dereknielsenphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DerekNielsenPhotography
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-nielsen-8b972a8/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/DerekNPhoto