We recently connected with Makena Schmidt and have shared our conversation below.

Makena, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

One of the most recent projects I’ve worked on was a 9-day documentary journey through South Iceland, which I undertook to capture both the breathtaking natural landscapes and the unique cultural experiences of the region.

I had always been fascinated by Iceland’s natural beauty—its waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches—but I wanted to go beyond the typical tourist imagery. I wanted to immerse myself in the local culture, experience the everyday life of Icelanders, and share a more nuanced view of the country. As I was embarking on this journey, I realized it wasn’t just about showcasing beautiful places but also about celebrating the simple, often overlooked details: the taste of a lamb hot dog at a roadside stand, the connection between the landscape and the people who call it home.

It became more than just a visual piece—it was about telling a story that combined awe, curiosity, and respect for a place that’s so raw, diverse, and alive.

Here is the link to a short film about the trip! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZewtKRGuXk&t=6s

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’m a visual storyteller originally from Delaware with a passion for travel, adventure, and community. My journey started in Yearbook back in Highschool, which led me to photography, where I now specialize in documentary-style content that captures the essence of places, people, and cultures through both videography and photography.

I create authentic, emotionally resonant content for travel, lifestyle, and nonprofit sectors, always focusing on the heart of each story. What sets me apart is my commitment to meaningful engagement—I take time to understand the communities I work with and always aim to give back through advocacy and nonprofit collaborations.

When I’m not traveling, I’m dedicated to supporting and creating for causes I believe in and using my platform to make a positive impact.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

One resource I wish I’d discovered earlier is the Canon RF lens lineup, especially the RF 24-70mm f/2.8. This lens has become my go-to—it’s incredibly versatile and produces stunning image quality. I didn’t realize how much a great lens could elevate my work until I started using it. Along with that, I wish I had tapped into more creative communities and educational resources sooner. There’s so much valuable knowledge out there that could have accelerated my growth as a creator. I think you should always continue learning!

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the ability to connect with others through storytelling. Whether it’s capturing the beauty of a place, shedding light on a cause, or evoking emotion, knowing that my work can resonate with people and make a positive impact is what drives me. It’s not just about creating something beautiful—it’s about creating something meaningful that sparks conversation, inspires change, or deepens understanding.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://makenaschmidtphotography.zenfoliosite.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makenaschmidt.photography/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/makena-schmidt-5b7124238
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@makenaschmidt.photography/videos
• Other: Link to the short film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZewtKRGuXk&t=6s

Image Credits

Makena Rose Photography