John Kingston
John Kingston
Photographer / Founder of Roaming Lost
Los Angeles, CA
www.kingstonphoto.net
instagram @kingstonphoto
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I help brands create great content, market it to the right people and help grow brands through visuals.”
With Roaming Lost I target the outdoors, and likeminded people. And with my personal photography I target automotive and lifestyle brands that may not specialize in being outdoors.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
It took soooo many steps. Literally and figuratively. But in reality it took hard work. I grew out of the digital world and into the world as we know it. So I'm grateful to see things from both sides and I believe its a great advantage!
FOR OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR FIELD, WHAT DO THEY USUALLY LACK?
Knowledge! I think a lot of people pick up cameras these days and say "I am a photographer". But with knowledge comes power, and that will set you apart.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Mainly focusing on monthly clients. The agency specializes in getting brands enough content to get them through the month without changing consistency and its been working out really well! Besides that still working on the agency side making it perfect.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
I think my trip to Baja Mexico with Wilco x Decked is my ideal focus. A road-trip with a focus on product is so much fun. And I'm even working on something that will combine the 2 more often ;)
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I LOVE creating. So I'm very happy behind the camera. But I don't mind the problem solving either for brands or whichever client. And helping them get what they are looking for.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
Well with anything new, it takes hard work and time. We are working on the new website for Roaming Lost and its taking longer than expected but I think its worth the wait if needed.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Honestly, my personal social media and just helping me interact with people more often.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
I would of told myself to get on the ball sooner. I began my photo career early but was always held back with such small problems now looking back.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Business, always something to learn in that arena.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
More collaborations and brand work. Love working with new brands to create something fresh they may not have though about.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
I would go back to the Baja trip with Wilco x Decked. Not only did we get some great work. But we bonded and made new friendships along the way. Which only makes the work stronger.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
If you had to break it down its about $250 an hour. I normally work on a day rate and average it into budgets. Sometimes clients want more than photo work so I have to adjust for that as well.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Best way to reach me is via email. I am quick to respond. And as much info up front would be lovely. Gets the ball rolling much faster.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Get Lost, Be found
This member profile was originally published in March 2018.