Meet Austin John of Austiinjohn in Ocean Beach

Austin, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started photography a few years ago after my first (failed) year of college at NAU. With no direction and a passion in arts, I decided to pick up a camera. I photographed people and places for the next two years traveling wherever I could. This passion eventually led me to San Diego, where I truly began to find my love for photographing in and around the ocean. Through hard work and dedication, I moved out of Arizona with my girlfriend and best friend. I began to really focus on building strong and long term relationships with brands of the area which has allowed me to comfortably do photography full time.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has been far from a smooth road. Past all the pretty pictures and “perfect” lifestyle, being a freelance creative comes with a LOT of mental and financial struggles… especially starting out. On top of that, nothing is consistent. But I have learned that being authentic, dedicated, and humble takes you a long way in the industry.

We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am a freelance photographer and occasional Instagram influencer. I specialize in commercial and lifestyle photography. I’m mostly known for my travel lifestyle work. I’m most proud of being able to shoot full time without having to worry about my financial situation. I think what separates me from other photographers is my editing style. I am heavily influenced by film photography and like to keep my digital work as close to film as possible. I also like to be very casual on shoots and simply capture things rather than posing things.

What were you like growing up?
My parents always told me I was the “free soul” of the family. I’ve been interested in art since I was a kid drew a lot of portraits which eventually brought me to photography. Being born in Hawaii has also truly made me appreciate the beauty of nature which is very apparent in my work today.