We’re looking forward to introducing you to Evan Olbricht. Check out our conversation below.
Evan, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I recently signed up for the Oceanside Ironman 70.3, and honestly, it’s been a game-changer for my workflow. It’s given me the space I didn’t know I needed. That space away from work, and space to think more clearly when I come back to it. I think a lot of us, especially creatives and entrepreneurs, tend to over-fixate on work. And while that drive isn’t always a bad thing, it can hit a wall. You start to feel stuck, bored, or like you’re recycling the same ideas.
This new fitness challenge has created some separation. When I’m out training, I’m not thinking about deadlines or deliverables, but I’m really just focused on pushing myself physically. But what’s cool is that when I return to work, I feel recharged. I’ve had time to let ideas breathe, and I’m excited to dive back in. It’s brought new energy into my creative process, and I’m pumped to keep that momentum going.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Evan Olbricht, and I’m a surf and sports photographer based in San Diego. Through my brand, EvanOPhotography, I specialize in capturing the energy and beauty of the ocean. I shoot surf sessions both from land and in the water, working closely with athletes, brands, and everyday surfers to create visuals that feel authentic and powerful.
Beyond sessions, I also sell my work online, including fine art prints and digital products like Lightroom presets. Most recently, I released an eBook called The Ultimate Guide to Building Your Surf Photography Business. It’s designed to help aspiring surf photographers level up in their work, whether they’re just starting out or looking to go full-time. Everything I do is rooted in my passion for the ocean, storytelling, and helping other creatives grow their craft and business.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad definitely taught me the most about work. He built his own company, and I had the chance to work for him throughout high school. That experience gave me a front-row seat to what hard work really looks like. Those long hours, smart decision-making, and treating people right. He showed me what it takes to manage a team, sell with confidence, and keep pushing even when things get tough. Looking back, those years really laid the foundation for what I do today as a photographer and entrepreneur.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self to keep trying new things and not to stress if they don’t work out. You’ve got more time than you think to figure it all out. Use that time to actually explore, learn, experiment, fail a little, and pay attention to what you’re passionate about. That’s how you’ll find what you’re passionate about in the long term and where your strengths really are.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
I think a lot of smart people are getting it wrong by making work their entire identity. There’s this pressure to constantly grind, level up, and tie your worth to productivity, but if you don’t have a life outside of work that you’re passionate about, what’s the point? I really believe in prioritizing the things that bring true joy: family, friends, hobbies, and faith. You don’t get to be young and healthy forever, and if you miss out on that part of life, no amount of success will make up for it. Balance isn’t just nice or cool, but it’s really essential.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I had 10 years left, I’d stop wasting time on social media and caring what other people think of me. So many of us lose hours every day scrolling, comparing, and chasing approval, and for what? Life’s too short for that. I want to spend my time doing things that matter, things I’m passionate about, and help others do the same. We’re here to live fully, not just exist online.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://evanophotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanophotographyy/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanolbricht/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@EvanOlbricht
- Other: Check out some prints: https://evanophotography.com/fine-art-surf-prints
Level up your photos with presets: https://evanophotography.com/surf-and-sport-presets
Image Credits
All photos taken by Evan Olbricht/EvanOPhotography
