In this conversation, adventure filmmaker and photographer Matthew Irving shares his journey from wildland firefighting to filmmaking. They discuss the balance between professional obligations and personal ethics. Matthew opens up about the challenges of jealousy and self-doubt in the industry, emphasizing support among creatives. The duo reflects on aging, fulfillment, and the joy of nature, while navigating the complexities of parenthood and societal expectations. Their candid exchange highlights the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself in both work and life.
Matthew Irving's transition from wildland firefighting to adventure filmmaking illustrates the profound connection between personal experience and artistic expression.
The podcast explores the ethical challenges filmmakers face in balancing professional success with personal values and integrity in storytelling.
Both speakers emphasize the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in both personal and professional life amid the pressures of the industry.
Deep dives
Matthew Irving's Journey into Adventure Filmmaking
Matthew Irving's background as a wildland firefighter has profoundly shaped his career as an adventure filmmaker and photographer. His eight years of experience in various firefighting roles provided him with a strong appreciation for the complexities of wildfires and nature. Transitioning into filmmaking, he aimed to capture untold stories from expeditions that reflect the raw power of the natural world. This unique perspective enriches his endeavors, allowing him to present wildfires not just as destructive forces but as critical components of ecological cycles.
The Balance of Ethics and Career in Filmmaking
In the podcast, there is a deep exploration of the ethical dilemmas faced by filmmakers like Matthew when balancing personal values and professional obligations. They discuss how the pressures of the industry can sometimes lead to compromises in storytelling and representation of nature. Both speakers reflect on the challenges of being true to oneself while trying to meet external expectations, particularly when financial success often seems at odds with personal ethics. This discussion highlights the intricate relationship between artistic integrity and the realities of making a living in the adventure filmmaking realm.
The Nature of Jealousy and Professional Relationships
Throughout their conversation, the speakers candidly address feelings of jealousy and admiration for each other’s work, revealing the complexities of professional relationships in the adventure field. They delve into how these emotions stem from shared experiences and the unique pressures they both face in their careers. Each acknowledges the highs and lows of their journeys, highlighting that even in moments of envy, there is room for mutual respect and understanding. This vulnerability creates a deeper connection, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie within the industry.
The Importance of Finding Joy and Meaning in Work
A significant theme in their dialogue is the quest for joy and meaning amidst the challenges of demanding careers in adventure filmmaking. Both speakers highlight the necessity of seeking fulfillment not only in their work but also in personal life, emphasizing the value of companionship, family, and the natural world. They express the idea that being present and true to oneself is essential for long-term happiness, despite external pressures to achieve and succeed. This narrative underscores the broader message that life’s meaningful moments often arise from authentic interactions with both people and nature.
The Future of Filmmaking and Legacy Considerations
The discussion also touches on the fleeting nature of legacy in the filmmaking industry and the impact of social media on perceptions of relevance. The speakers debate how quickly evolving trends can make even significant achievements feel temporary compared to the desire for lasting recognition. They reflect on how to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive field and the insecurities that accompany such pressures. Ultimately, they convey a hopeful outlook, suggesting that regardless of individual paths, the essence of adventure will always endure, contributing to the broader narrative of human experience.
Episode 192 of The Adventure Podcast features adventure filmmaker and photographer, Matthew Irving. Matthew has a background in wildland firefighting, having worked on engine crews, hotshot crews, and a helitack crew for around 8 years earlier in his career. In more recent years, Matthew has transitioned into adventure filmmaking, often working on expeditions and projects that mirror or overlap with host Matt's own work. This is quite an honest conversation, and they dive in head first with Matthew leading the conversation on their views of each other and how they feel about their careers. They also reflect on the importance of ethics, morals, and personal values in work, and grapple with balancing professional obligations against personal principles. Throughout, they discuss topics like family, the natural world, and the fleeting nature of legacy, emphasising the need to stay true to oneself and find happiness in the present.
For extra insights from the worlds of adventure, exploration and the natural world, you can find The Adventure Podcast+ community on Substack. You can also follow along and join in on Instagram @theadventurepodcast.