We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ryan Struck a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ryan, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made (either in terms of time or money)? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

The best investment I’ve ever made was to go all in on myself. The only thing I can control in this life is how I operate here on Earth. I am choosing to be my own biggest supporter, and have the conviction that this creative journey is the right path. I’m not saying that I know what will happen, in fact, I am sure it is the exact opposite.

Spending time with what fascinates me has never led me astray. Creativity is my most vested interest to date, and the belief in knowing that I can do it, has been a steady stream of yield that I will never capitulate.

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 am a self-taught photographer and director accepting commissions worldwide. Earning a BA in History taught me to investigate and learn about global events, culture and people. In that same spirit, photography and filmmaking allows me to be curious about the world and what surrounds us. I enjoy recording poignant moments through a visual medium; I love what I do.

I’ve photographed surfing around the globe, documented a fishing village in Northern Peru, photographed celebrities and CEOs. I’ve been commissioned for my work, as well as volunteered my services. Documentary in nature, and united by a passionate curiosity for my surroundings drive my work. When not at home shooting I can be found traveling in search of surf and inspiring natural lighting. My desire to capture moments that help viewers imagine the instant the shutter was clicked, fuels my passion to combine beautiful light, people, and places.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Be yourself. Cliché, however, true. If you are sharing only what you think people want to see, than you will feel trapped online and the following you build won’t really care about what it is you are passionate about.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

As an artist over time you acquire armor en piecemeal. Bringing a work of art to light, it’s a sign of vulnerability. If we deem a piece finished enough to offer for sale, it means we’ve weighed many factors. Probably made many more decisions than we’ve care to admit. Something that is completely welcome is inquiry to the art itself. It’s fun to talk through the process, story, or state of being.

As vulnerable as it is, when I do release work, I am confident in its meaning for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ryanstruck.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ryanstruck
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ryanstruck
• Other: https://foundation.app/@ryanstruck