Area/Topic
Worldwide, Fly Fishing, Photography, Travel Writing

Jess McGlothlin
Freelance Photographer and Writer
Jess McGlothlin Media

Jess McGlothlin sees her mission as a simple one: tell stories. Working as a freelance photographer and writer in the outdoor industry, while on assignment in the past few years she’s learned how to throw spears at coconuts in French Polynesia, dodge saltwater crocodiles in Cuba, stand-up paddleboard down Peruvian Amazon tributaries and eat all manner of unidentifiable food.

She is a passionate writer and photographer who brings a unique, energetic perspective and approach to her work. Her written word is bright, bold, and honest. She’s worked with some of the largest brands in the outdoor sector, in roles ranging from staff copywriter to annual campaign photographer to marketing consultant.

Subject coverage ranges from Western rodeos to fly fishing far above the Arctic Circle in Russia. She has proven competence covering everything from international advertising campaigns to multi-day survival training sessions in remote, challenging environments to exploratory fishing trips. Her work has been featured in gallery shows from Germany to Israel, and she has received international awards / recognition for both her writing and photography.

Jess is available for contract, editorial, and assignment work, and is currently based in Missoula, Montana, USA. She's an FAA certified sUAS pilot, and has experience working in environments from the Wadi Rum to the Arctic.

https://www.jessmcglothlinmedia.com/

Summary

Jess McLaughlin, a freelance photographer and writer, shares her journey from equestrian to photography and writing. She discusses the power of words and images in storytelling and the importance of human connection in travel photography. Jess emphasizes the value of capturing candid moments and relatable experiences, as well as including people in lodge and travel photos. She also talks about the challenges of budget and timing in photography and the benefits and challenges of drone photography. Jess concludes by sharing her favorite part of the business: being able to choose her clients. In this conversation, Jason Elkins interviews Jess McGlothlin, a professional photographer specializing in outdoor and adventure travel. They discuss the importance of teaching guides to take better photos, the limitations of in-person teaching, and the value of good photos in enhancing the customer experience. They also explore how photos can be leveraged to generate reviews and promote businesses. Jess shares her insights on the challenges of running a photography business and the essential travel items she always carries. She concludes with advice for lodge operators on working with photographers.

Takeaways

• Teaching guides how to take better photos can enhance the customer experience and result in better tips for them.
• Photos can be leveraged to generate reviews and promote businesses.
• Running a photography business involves challenges such as managing expectations and invoicing.
• Essential travel items for a photographer include a battery bank for their phone and electrolytes for staying hydrated.

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