LIVING ON THE ROAD

Living on the road as a photographer is a lot of different things. It can be an exciting and rewarding experience but it can also be lonely and occasionally exhausting. Behind the excitement and freedom of living in a seemingly constant state of freedom and adventure, there are also moments of isolation and indecision and exhaustion, which don’t get mentioned as much.

Being on the road offers a unique opportunity to travel in search of the undiscovered moment, to see beautiful and remote locations, meeting new people, and creating stunning photographs along the way. In this article, we will explore what it's like to live on the road as an Outdoor Adventure Photographer and how to make the most out of this lifestyle.

Being a photographer on the road, in my opinion, is a game of two halves. The second part is the easy part, where you get to create photos of wonderful views and moments. The first half though, is the much more important part, and it’s where you learn so much about yourself. And really, this part isn’t much fun. The logistics of being on the road are complex and there’s a lot of thinking to be done and choices to be made. First and foremost is your sleeping arrangements.

I try to be flexible with this aspect and take into account several factors. Most people myself included start living on the road with whatever car they have. It’s a cheap way to do it and, while perhaps not the best long term solution, with a bit of thought and imagination it’s possible to be pretty comfortable. Personally I do try to mix it up a bit and sometimes I will alternate between car, tent and hotels. Mostly this is weather and mood dependent. Tents and cars can be cold and after a couple of nights of not sleeping because of rain or wind a hotel can be a welcome break and a chance to recharge before doing it al over again. We are all human and sometimes being cold and tired night after night just gets a bit much so there’s nothing wrong with that. I’d love to say I just stay in a hotel or apartment every night I’m travelling on the road but financially that would be extravagant.

Life on the road can be challenging, but it also comes with many benefits. You get to experience total freedom and flexibility, and you can go wherever the adventure takes you. Whether it's working on a new project, or discovering exciting new places, being on the road means you're never quite sure what your next adventure will bring.

Managing work and life balance

To live on the road and sustain your lifestyle as an outdoor adventure photographer, you must find a balance between work and life. When out on a shoot, it can be easy to become consumed with capturing stunning images that you forget to take time for yourself. But remember that living on the road is not a permanent vacation, and you still need to set aside time to maintain a healthy work-life balance. There is also the logistics of the job after the photography day is over. Downloading images to a comp or storage device, charging batteries and other gear, eating, showering and so on. One way to achieve work-life balance is by sticking to a schedule or routine that allows for downtime and some creature comforts. Plan your days, prioritize your activities and make time for things that will help you stay mentally and physically healthy. Get regular exercise, cook healthy meals, and make time for socializing with other photographers, adventurers, and locals.

Making the most of your experiences

Living on the road as an outdoor adventure photographer presents endless opportunities to create captivating images. You can capture stunning landscapes, wildlife, outdoor activities, and much more. To make the most of your experiences, it's important to stay curious and open-minded. Be willing to try new things, explore new places, and challenge yourself creatively.

In addition, don't forget to document your experiences. Keeping a journal, blog, or photo diary can be a great way to record your adventures and share them with others. You can also use social media platforms to showcase your work and connect with other photographers and potential clients.

Final thoughts

Living on the road as an outdoor adventure photographer is not for everyone, and there are times I hate it as much as I love it but for those who choose to embrace it, it will offer unique experiences and opportunities you can't find anywhere else. It requires hard work, dedication, and the ability to embrace a lifestyle that can be challenging, but ultimately, it's a rewarding way to make a living doing what you love – capturing stunning images out in the great outdoors.