We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Daniel Costa a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Daniel, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
This is an on-going question for almost every creative I know. I don’t really think you overcome imposter syndrome because as a photographer and creative, you’re always second guessing your work based on the environment and job you are doing.
Overcoming imposter syndrome has been a journey for me personally, filled with small steps and lots of self-reflection. I started by acknowledging that these feelings are normal and don’t define my abilities. Focusing on getting 1% better every day rather than chasing perfection has been crucial.
Celebrating small wins and seeking feedback from trusted peers helped me see my progress more clearly. Being part of creative communities and sharing my experiences has provided support and validation. I also work on reframing negative thoughts into positive affirmations and concentrate on the value I bring to others. Continuous learning and practicing my craft have boosted my confidence, and documenting my achievements reminds me of how far I’ve come.
Sometimes, talking to a professional has also been helpful. It’s an ongoing process, but each small step makes a big difference.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Absolutely, I’d love to share more about my journey and what I’m currently focused on. I’m Dan Costa, a full-time travel photographer and cinematographer. My passion for photography sparked during a trip to Montana in August 2021. Before that, I didn’t quite understand the magic of photography, but that trip changed everything for me. Now, I can’t get enough of capturing the world through my lens.
What excites me most about my work is the ability to freeze time and create lasting memories. Photography is more than just images; it’s about capturing moments that can be cherished for generations. I mainly focus on travel photography, working with travel companies to showcase the beauty of different destinations and inspire others to explore.
One of the most special aspects of my work is teaching creatives to grow 1% every day. I create educational content to help fellow photographers and creatives elevate their craft and business. Sharing knowledge and helping others succeed is incredibly rewarding for me.
Right now, I just finished working on an exciting project (that I can’t really talk about at the moment). Additionally, I’m developing a series of online workshops and courses aimed at helping photographers at all levels improve their skills and navigate the business side of photography.
I’m also planning to expand my reach by launching a new blog and YouTube channel where I’ll share tips, behind-the-scenes insights, and travel stories. It’s all about connecting with a broader audience and fostering a community of passionate creatives.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey. I’m thrilled about what’s ahead and look forward to continuing to share my passion for photography and travel with the world.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three key qualities have been instrumental in my journey: resilience, continuous learning, and community engagement. Resilience has helped me navigate the ups and downs of a creative career, allowing me to stay focused and motivated despite challenges. Continuous learning has kept my skills sharp and relevant, enabling me to evolve and stay ahead in my field by mastering new techniques and understanding the latest trends. Engaging with a supportive community has provided inspiration, feedback, and opportunities, enriching my journey and opening doors I wouldn’t have found on my own. For those starting out, I advise embracing challenges as learning opportunities, staying curious and investing time in ongoing education, and actively connecting with other creatives to build a strong support system. Developing these qualities will set a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling creative journey.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
The person who’s been my rock through all the ups and downs has to be my partner, John. His support has been a total game-changer. Whenever I’ve hit a creative block or doubted myself, John’s been there with a pep talk and a fresh perspective. He’s always ready with practical advice and constructive feedback, and his belief in me never wavers. Plus, watching him crush his own goals has been super inspiring and motivating. Honestly, I don’t know where I’d be without his unwavering support and understanding – he’s been my biggest cheerleader and the secret sauce to my success!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thedancosta.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dkcostaa
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/dkcostaa
Image Credits
Daniel Kenneth Costa
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
