We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Myers and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Justin, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I’m a big fan of “just try and see”. So, several years ago my brother suggested to me that I would enjoy making videos using my smartphone. I tried it and it seemed interesting. Eventually, I bought my first camera and started learning photography as well. At first, I was shooting portraits for friends and just charging enough for gas money, but eventually I realized the power of being able to create images that represented an idea, evoked an emotion, or just connected with someone on a personal level. That has helped me to start working with different brands and business to help them create content that tells their story in a meaningful way.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
So I am a photographer and videographer, but I spent almost the first decade of my career as an educator. Being an educator at heart never really goes away and that has always played a role in my creative work. One of things I most enjoy is coffee and using my work to spread education and awareness around coffee. A lot of people don’t even realize that coffee is actually the seed of a cherry-like fruit.
So, all of these experiences have led me to creating work that tells stories. Whether I’m working with a brand telling the story of how they can make an impact in someone’s life or creating work that documents the process of making coffee, my foundation as an educator is consistently playing a role in what and how I create.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m always about trying new places and, especially trying new coffees. So, anytime I’m showing someone around we’re definitely making several stops to different coffee shops that are doing exciting new things. That list changes constantly and I don’t necessarily have a go-to spot, because it’s more about who is doing something interesting. We’re also probably trying new restaurants or, at least, ones that I’ve never been to. That probably makes me a pretty lousy tour guide and the experience could be a little hit or miss, but it’s going to be an adventure!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have an awesome support group that has always encouraged me to follow the things I’m passionate about in life. My family has always affirmed me in the pursuit of my passions, even when I gave up a successful run as an engineering major in college to go for a degree in the humanities instead. My biggest supporter, though, is definitely my wife. She has been right by my side with love and encouragement, even through several cross country and one transatlantic move in my career pursuits. I wouldn’t be able to accomplish a fraction of what I have without her support.
Website: https://www.thecoffeephotographer.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onewhodrinkscoffee/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-myers-455b3686/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JustinMyersPhoto