We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rebecca Sloan Blanton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Rebecca Sloan, thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.
I believe that maintaining a calm state is crucial for creativity. It’s essential to release negative emotions or triggers to return to a state of relaxation, calmness, peace, and playfulness, which can truly unlock creative potential. I’ve learned to recognize when I’m in a triggered state and take steps to calm down before diving into a creative flow. However, there have also been times where the simple act of engaging in the creative process—picking up the camera and starting to shoot—has helped shift me from a heightened state into a flow of creativity. This approach often helps me transition smoothly into my creative work.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a Denver-based branding photographer, available for travel throughout Colorado and internationally. I specialize in planning, coordinating, and executing photoshoots for brands and businesses, handling everything from capturing to editing the images myself. My passion for the great outdoors and the stunning scenic landscapes of Colorado drives my photography, allowing me to use these natural settings as a backdrop for creative photos that help brands showcase their products and services to their clients.
Recently, I have honed my focus on outdoor and adventure branding photography, where I excel as a brand storyteller. This niche allows me to create impactful imagery for companies that specialize in outdoor gear and apparel, helping them convey their story and connect with their audience through visual art.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My familiarity with Colorado’s outdoor and natural areas significantly enhances my comfort level during outdoor branding sessions. This comfort stems from spending considerable time exploring and adventuring in these locales, allowing me to expertly utilize them as dynamic backdrops for photoshoots.
My early career in the marketing departments of various small businesses laid a strong foundation in understanding what effective brand storytelling requires. This experience has been pivotal in shaping my approach to branding photography.
Additionally, my hands-on practice with the camera has been extensive. I coordinated over 300 photoshoots during 2020 and 2021 alone—years marked by the challenges of COVID, which only deepened my experience and adaptability in the field.
For those just starting their journey in photography, I recommend building a solid base in marketing principles and consistently practicing with your camera. Take it everywhere, and keep shooting. The continuous practice will not only refine your skills but also deepen your understanding of visual storytelling, essential for any successful photographer.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone deeply entrenched in the marketing or creative direction of an outdoor, adventure, or eco-friendly brand. They could be a marketing director, CEO, CMO or creative director who represent the exact type of professional who would greatly benefit from my specialized photography services. This client would be someone who values authenticity, sustainability, and has a genuine passion for the outdoors, which aligns perfectly with my expertise and creative vision.
These clients are not just looking for beautiful imagery; they seek a photographer who can tell their brand’s story through compelling visuals that resonate with a like-minded audience. They appreciate the importance of high-quality, authentic content that can communicate their commitment to environmental stewardship and adventure, enhancing their brand’s connection with customers who share these values.
Ideal clients for me are decision-makers who are involved in shaping their company’s branding strategy. They have a clear vision for how they want their brand represented and are looking for a professional photographer who can bring that vision to life. They are collaborative, value creative input, and understand the significant role that visuals play in modern brand communication. Additionally, they are professionals who value a photographer’s ability to work flexibly and effectively within diverse outdoor settings, leveraging natural beauty to highlight their products’ unique features.
In essence, the perfect client is one who not only values the technical skills brought to the table but also trusts in the creative process to enhance their brand’s narrative in an authentic and impactful way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rebeccasloancreative.com
- Instagram: @rebeccasloanphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaSloanPhotography/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccasloanblanton/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rebecca-sloan-photography-denver
Image Credits
Rebecca Sloan Photography
