Meet Ryan Wesson | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ryan Wesson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ryan, how do you think about risk?
I like to think about risk in a positive manner. There is good in something worth trying. Whatever that dream may be to someone even if the outcome is not as expected, ultimately I view it as a positive because when you take the steps to try you are on the road to embracing what that risk can bring. Risk has taken its role at various points in my life. One of my earliest risks I have taken was when I walked away from collegiate running to pursue my dream to become a working photographer. I had no idea what I was getting myself into nor did I have any knowledge in how I was going to pursue this dream but I took small steps to start with and it ultimately led me to the road I needed to be on to achieve this dream. Later on, I continued to take risks as I have walked away from photography positions that ultimately didn’t align and I might have felt lost at times but everything turned out for the better. I gained new perspectives to be still in the unknown and to be grateful for how far I have come. Ultimately risk can go either way for anyone but from what I have learned about risks is it’s how you choose to look at. For better or worse.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have rooted myself well in commercial photography. I live mainly in the world of e-commerce, events, and lifestyle portraits. I come to each job with positive energy and attention to detail making sure to capture the brand, event, or portrait at its best. In each job I do I am intentional about bringing to life the stories of people’s dreams and showcasing to the world who they are. I am most proud of some of the brand campaigns I have had the pleasure to be a part of. A notable project would be with Show Season when they released a new equestrian line of custom riding apparel. That was one of my earlier projects I was brought onto and was very grateful for. How I got to where I am has been mostly word of mouth. It has been tough at times especially when in the beginning there are a lot of lessons you will learn that are apart from just photographing. I have taken a lot of time to learn more of the business side as a photographer. It can be challenging especially when most of what I have learned comes from real life experience rather than taking a class. I have overcome a lot of challenges by doing research, asking mentors questions (even if it might be a silly question) and trusting in myself to handle any situation with grace. Some valuable lessons I have learned a long the way is to be adaptable and willing. If you are feeling overwhelmed take a second to slow down for a moment and know you are worth it. Be present in every opportunity and thank those who have given you a chance.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I were to have an itinerary for a week long trip in my area I would start out with some hiking spots out at Lake Pleasant, Pyramid Peak, Four Peaks, and Mcdowell Mountain in the mornings. From there I would have to take them out to a few coffee and restaurant spots. I would take them to Union Coffee, Boyer Bakery, and a tea spot called Tangled Roots. Food spots I would take them to are Nagoya Sushi, YC’s mongolian grill, Sumburros, The Casual Pint, and Peoria Artisan Brewery. Places to drink I would take a trip to The Whining Pig, Valley Bar, and Postinos. I would take them to the Musical Instrument Museum, Arizona Science Center, and the Desert Botantical Gardens. I would also take them to a Diamondbacks game, I have always enjoyed the experience of going to baseball games, having food and drinks there. Id see if there were any bands or artists playing at the Nile in Mesa that week. I would take them to check out Downtown Glendale, Old town Scottsdale, and Fashion square. There is a lot in Phoenix I would probably drive them all around the whole city through the week.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would start with my fiancé Erin who has been a major component in my success. She has continually cheered me on, given me the encouragement and love that I needed to stay focused, even since we started dating. Erin is a real life super hero and is someone who continually gives without ever expecting anything. My parents are another huge component in backing me to chase my dreams. My friends, I would not be here without Taylor, Justin, Tye, Adan, Jackie, Dakota, John, Zonnel, Jarrick, Dominic, and Matt. Some honorable mentions who have been mentors to me include Bryan, Preston, and Laurie for taking me on as an assistant and showing me the ropes. To all of those who have given me a chance. There are so many names but I can’t thank you all enough from the bottom of my heart!

Website: www.ryanjwesson.com

Instagram: ryanjwesson