A Post By: Peter West Carey
In this article, we delve into the world of Jon Cornforth, a highly acclaimed nature photographer known for his stunning images of untouched landscapes. Peter West Carey, the author of this post, was amazed by Jon’s work and his personable nature on Twitter, which prompted him to reach out for an interview. In this in-depth conversation, Jon shares insights into his journey as a nature photographer, his transition to making photography his major source of income, and the strategic decisions he made to succeed in a rapidly changing industry.
1. By the look of your site, would it be safe to classify you as a nature photographer, primarily?
Jon Cornforth defines himself as a nature photographer, specializing in capturing landscapes that are untainted by human influence or wildlife interference. His commitment to preserving the natural essence of his subjects is evident in his breathtaking images. Whether it be the rugged terrains of Washington State or the awe-inspiring beauty of other unspoiled landscapes, Jon’s work showcases the raw power and serenity of nature.
2. How did you get your start in photography? What led you to it?
Ten years ago, Jon Cornforth embarked on a mountaineering trip and an extended backpacking holiday through Southeast Asia, during which he purchased his first SLR camera. Having always been deeply connected to the outdoors, whether through sailing or pursuing adventurous activities like backpacking and rock-climbing, Jon found himself captivated by the art of photography. As he moved from disposable and point & shoot cameras to a professional-grade SLR, his passion for capturing the beauty of the natural world grew exponentially.
3. At what point did you go pro? In other words, when did it become your major source of income? And what decisions did you have to confront on that path?
For Jon Cornforth, the transition to becoming a professional photographer was not a sudden leap but a gradual process. It took several years before he started making any money from his photography. However, his initial ambitions were supported by his wife, which allowed him to persist in pursuing his passion. Jon emphasizes that making a living from nature photography requires both patience and a willingness to adapt to the industry’s evolving landscape.
4. On your blog, you mention making a switch from traditional gallery showings and sales to gaining more sales online. Can you fill in some of the gaps about how that came about for you?
Initially, Jon Cornforth found success by working with art galleries in Washington and Hawaii, as well as selling prints at juried art festivals. However, as the housing market declined, he noticed a decline in sales. Additionally, advice from fellow photographers alerted him to the diminishing income potential from stock agencies. Determined to thrive in this changing environment, Jon realized the need to adapt his approach. He built a website with search engine optimization to enhance online visibility and started offering photography tours. Furthermore, embracing social networking platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, and YouTube proved instrumental in expanding his reach and establishing himself as a highly regarded natural history photographer.
6. What advice would you give to our readers looking to follow your path and make a living selling photos?
Jon Cornforth’s advice for aspiring nature photographers seeking to establish a successful career is grounded in realism and financial prudence. He warns against expecting immediate financial rewards comparable to high-earning jobs. Acknowledging the need to pay bills, Jon emphasizes the importance of managing expenses carefully. He often opts for alternative accommodations, such as camping, during his photography trips to minimize costs. Jon also highlights the necessity of treating photography as a business and adapting to the changing dynamics of the industry to sustain a living.
In conclusion, Jon Cornforth’s journey as a nature photographer offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of pursuing this career path. His passion for capturing the beauty of untouched landscapes, along with his ability to adapt to new market trends and leverage social networks, has propelled him to become a highly regarded figure in the field. Aspiring photographers can draw inspiration from Jon’s commitment to preserving the raw beauty of nature and his strategic approach to building a successful photography business.
Additional Information
Peter West Carey expresses his gratitude to Jon Cornforth for taking the time to share his experiences. He encourages readers to explore more of Jon’s remarkable work on his website, Cornforth Images, and to follow him on Twitter for updates. Additionally, Peter mentions upcoming photography tours with Jon in Alaska and Patagonia, offering readers the opportunity to learn from and travel with the renowned nature photographer.
Readers interested in honing their photography skills and immersing themselves in the beauty of unspoiled landscapes can seize this unique chance to join Jon Cornforth on his future adventures.
The article is compiled and compiled by tipcamera.com
