Today we’d like to introduce you to Ben Irving
Ben , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey in photography has been anything but linear, and it’s the twists, turns, and unexpected moments that have shaped me into the photographer I am today. I have been an entrepreneur from a young age. After college, I started my own business and built an auto detailing company. After so many years, I was looking for something new and was not sure what that was.
Photography has always been a passion of mine since I was young. It started with an interest in capturing moments and memories. I remember being fascinated by how a single frame could capture emotions, tell stories, and freeze time. I quickly realized that photography wasn’t just about pointing and shooting—it was about seeing the world differently. The more I learned, the more I found myself drawn to certain aspects of photography: light, composition, and the ability to express feelings without words. I began experimenting with different styles and techniques, from portraiture to landscape photography.
Networking with other photographers played a pivotal role in my growth as well. Attending workshops, collaborating on projects, and connecting with mentors provided me with invaluable insights and new perspectives. All of this is what made me decide to go from a hobby photographer to full-time photographer as my career.
Photography is much more than just a job—it’s become a way of life. It’s a tool for self-expression, a way to connect with others, and see the world in new ways.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey in photography, like many creative fields, was not smooth.
Understanding the complexities of exposure, lighting, composition, and camera settings was daunting at first. It required a lot of patience as well as a lot of trial and error. My largest challenge was finding clients and building a strong portfolio. Networking, marketing, and dealing with the business side of things were additional layers that were overwhelming trying to juggle them all myself.
Photography, like any art, is subjective. Dealing with constructive criticism or negative feedback from clients, peers, or the public is difficult, especially when you’ve invested a lot of emotion into your work. I remember at first experiencing creative burnout or periods of self-doubt. It’s difficult to stay inspired, and constantly comparing your work to others can be discouraging.
Though the road was not smooth at first, these struggles led to growth, innovation and a deeper connection to the craft.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My focus and specialties in photography are portraiture, small events, and landscapes. Over time, I have developed a strong reputation for capturing the essence of my subjects, whether it’s the unique personality of an individual in a portrait, the beauty of nature in a landscape, or the intimate atmosphere of a small gathering or event.
In portrait photography, I strive to create images that not only highlight the physical appearance of my subjects but also convey their personality, emotions, and story. I take pride in connecting with people and making them feel comfortable, so I can capture genuine, authentic moments.
When it comes to landscape photography, I am passionate about showcasing the natural world in its most stunning form. I’m incredibly proud of a particular shot I captured after traveling over 6 hours round trip in pursuit of it. I was fortunate enough to photograph the Aurora Borealis in Southern California—an experience that has been a lifelong dream of mine.
What sets me apart in photography is my dedication to capturing unique and rare moments. Whether it’s traveling for hours to chase a once-in-a-lifetime shot like the Aurora Borealis or pushing myself to capture the essence of a scene, I strive to go beyond simply taking photos. I love the pursuit of unique experiences and being able to immortalize them in a memorable way.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I have learned along the way is the value of patience – both with the process and myself. In the beginning I was always obsessed with capturing the “perfect” shot every time and constantly getting frustrated when it did not go as planned. Over time I have realized photography is as much about waiting for the right moment as it is about capturing it. Whether it is waiting for the light to change, for a subject to move into the frame or for my vision to come into focus, it often happens when I allow myself to be present and not rush.
The other lesson is to trust my instincts and embrace imperfections. The best shots often come when I let go of expectations and just flow with the scene. I’ve learned that the unexpected moments—those that can’t be planned or controlled—are often the ones that tell the truest, and most powerful stories.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.benirvingmedia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benirvingmedia_llc/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@benirvingmedia
Image Credits
All of the images are taken by me.
