We recently connected with Jordan Willet and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jordan thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

For me this goes back to as long as I can remember. I recall growing up and never having the desire to have a “traditional” life IE go to college, work a 9-5, retire at 65 etc.

I always felt there was more to life than that, for me.

Fast forward to the age of 14, I get asked by my two older brothers to join their band playing bass. I didn’t play bass but I knew they were passionate and it sounded fun. They taught me the songs and I was instantly hooked.

That quickly turned into touring full time together all around the world and getting my GED at age 15 so I could keep up with the tour schedule without distractions.

During my 11 years on the road full time I fell in love with video editing and production. As an independent band, we couldn’t afford to pay people to do videos for us, so I just decided to learn it myself. That opened up my life to a whole new world.

Jordan, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Jordan Willet, (31) I am a believer in Jesus Christ, Husband of almost 10 years to Jillian, Father to my Daughter Are Bell Rose Willet (3) and my Son, Armor Lee Rhodes Willet (7 months).

I am touring photographer/ videographer for Brandon Lake and together with my wife we run Runia Visuals providing photo/video for weddings, elopements and portrait sessions.

I got my start while touring with my brothers in a rock band for over 11 years in a van and trailer. And that taught me that with enough drive, passion and excellence in your work that you can make your dreams a reality. Alongside of touring since the age of 14 I have had the opportunity to travel the world to 21 countries so far, telling incredible stories. My prayer is to continue to have that number rise.

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

I feel like this changes everyday for me, but right now the most rewarding aspect comes from the environment of actually taking the photo or video. I recently started doing content with touring musicians and being out on the road, on the buses, behind the scenes, the set up, the anticipation for the show. All building up to the actual show, it’s just an incredible experience.

Secondly, I get the biggest reward from the fact that I am showing my daughter and son that with hard work, excellence, passion and drive you can reach your goals.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I think one thing most creatives struggle with is comparison. I view comparison as the thief of creativity. Often I would find myself doubting my work (even work I was stoked on!) after viewing others work. It’s a slippery slope that I had to learn to tune out and keep my head down and trust myself, trust my process and my own creativity.

For me a good reminder of this is remembering that people have sought me out for their tour, wedding, or portrait session. So that means they like what they see, so I shouldn’t be doubting it, you know?

Contact Info:

• Website: Runiavisuals.com
• Instagram: My personal/ Tour photography @jordanwillet | Weddings & Portraits @runiavisuals