We were lucky to catch up with Jannik Obenhoff recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jannik thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Yes, I’ve been fortunate to make a full-time living from my photography work, but it wasn’t an overnight success. My journey began when I picked up a camera at the age of 12, a hobby that carried me through high school. Over time, this passion grew and developed into a substantial Instagram following, eventually reaching over 600,000 followers, which helped propel my career.

Right after high school, I took the leap to become a full-time photographer. Those two years were unforgettable—I was traveling the world, capturing the places I’d only dreamed about, and actually getting paid to do it. Building a strong portfolio and presence on Instagram helped me connect with brands, reach new clients, and create a recognizable style that set me apart. That early exposure was crucial, not only for income but also for credibility in the industry.

Looking back, I might have sped up the process by diversifying my content more proactively, perhaps exploring different platforms earlier on or collaborating with a wider variety of brands. Expanding my skills beyond photography into areas like video or even business marketing strategies could have opened more doors sooner. Still, each step in the journey taught me something invaluable, shaping the career I’m grateful to have today.

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

I’m a professional outdoor and lifestyle photographer, and my journey began at age 12 when I picked up a camera for the first time. What started as a high school hobby turned into a career after I built a following on Instagram that’s now over 600,000 strong. After high school, I spent two years traveling the world as a full-time photographer, working with brands to create visuals that tell authentic stories. My clients range from outdoor and travel brands to tech companies, and I help them connect with audiences by capturing visuals that go beyond showcasing products—they tell a story and create a genuine connection.

What sets me apart is my commitment to quality and storytelling. I approach each project with a focus on narrative and emotion, always aiming to create images that resonate deeply with viewers. I’m proud of the supportive community and client relationships I’ve built over the years. My goal is to deliver work that inspires, combining technical skill with a fresh perspective to bring each brand’s vision to life.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My mission as a photographer is to create work that inspires people to explore, appreciate, and connect with the nature and world around them. I aim to capture the beauty in both grand landscapes and simple moments, highlighting the unique stories that each scene or place has to offer. Through my photography, I hope to foster a sense of curiosity and respect for nature and adventure, inviting viewers to see the extraordinary in the everyday. Ultimately, I want my images to evoke emotion and encourage others to embrace exploration.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being a creative is the ability to capture and share moments that resonate with people on a deep level. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about creating images that tell a story, evoke emotion, or inspire others to see the world differently. Knowing that my work can connect with people across cultures and bring a fresh perspective to everyday scenes keeps me passionate and motivated. For me, it’s all about making an impact through my lens.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jannikobenhoff.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jannikobenhoff
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jannikobenhoff/