Camrin Dengel – Slow Living in the American West

Camrin Dengel is a professional lifestyle photographer who lives and works on the quiet side of the Teton Mountain Range in Teton Valley, Idaho. Her work focuses on a broad range of subjects, with an emphasis on sustainable agriculture, hunting, fishing, and life in and around her mountain community. In her work and leisure, Camrin is a devoted proponent of slow living, and she strives to approach her profession and life in a manner that is intentional, simple, meaningful, and positive. • Growing up in Valdez, Alaska gave Camrin a unique perspective and toughness (she calls it “stubbornness”) that have allowed her to pursue her passion for art full time, while staying true to her ideals and enjoying a slow-living lifestyle. She attended college on a running scholarship with the intention of becoming an engineer, but decided midway through that art and photography were her true calling. After graduation, she moved straight to Teton Valley where she has built a life and business centered around documenting the people and places that make the American West such a special place to live. • I’ve spent a lot of time in Teton Valley and can honestly say that Camrin’s work captures the landscapes and lifestyle more authentically than any artist I’ve ever seen. She is obviously a talented photographer, but she is also a super-interesting person who has managed to sidestep a good deal of the “busyness” and distractions that dominate many of our lives. In our conversation, we discuss her career trajectory, and also her love for the community of Teton Valley. We dig deep into the idea of slow living, and she offers some thoughts on ways for people to adopt a slower, more intentional lifestyle. As usual, we discuss favorite books, documentaries, and challenges and opportunities facing the American West. • This is a really fun episode full of lots of great info. Be sure to check out the episode notes for links to everything we discuss. Hope you enjoy! ••• http://mountainandprairie.com/camrin-dengel/ ••• TOPICS DISCUSSED: 2:30 - How Camrin describes her work 3:50 - Good example of Camrin’s work 5:30 - Teton Valley explained 7:25 - How she ended up in Teton Valley 8:30 - Transition from adventure photography to lifestyle 9:50 - Thoughts on slow living 10:45 - Ways to live slowly as effortlessly as possible 13:25 - Being intentional with social media 14:20 - Advice for adopting a slower lifestyle 15:30 - Growing up in Alaska 16:35 - Unique aspects of growing up in Alaska 18:50 - How Alaska shaped Camrin’s perspective 20:05 - College years in California 21:15 - From engineer student to artist 23:15 - Time with the Alaska Marine Conservation Council 24:35 - Similarities between fisherman, ranchers, and farmers 27:10 - Camrin’s definition of conservation 28:00 - Thoughts on fishing and hunting 31:45 - How Camrin developed the confidence to follow her passion 33:15 - Role models and mentors 35:10 - Other possible career paths 36:45 - Advice to aspiring photographers 39:00 - Photography advice 40:30 - Book recomendations 41:20 - Slow living resources 42:45 - Favorite documentaries 44:20 - Surprising activities 48:00 - Favorite place 49:20 - Ideas for off the beaten path experiences in Alaska 51:00 - The insanity of the Mt. Marathon 55:15 - Biggest challenge facing the American West 57:30 - Request of the listeners 58:50 - Connect with Camrin online