Chasing Light: Austin Mann on Purpose, Beauty, and Art

Aug 8, 2024

Austin Mann, a talented photographer and technology influencer, shares his inspiring journey from hustling for a job at National Geographic to collaborating with Apple on the 'Shot on iPhone' campaign. He discusses the significant role of technology and AI in modern photography, the importance of curiosity and purpose in storytelling, and how his relationship with wife Esther Havens shapes their socially impactful work. Austin emphasizes photography's power to connect people with the beauty of the world and his quest for self-discovery through creativity.

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Intro

00:00 • 3min

Seizing Opportunity: A Photographer's Resolve

03:19 • 8min

Navigating Creativity and Technology

11:32 • 20min

From Recklessness to Reflection

31:34 • 21min

Reflecting on Artistic Journeys and Professional Growth

52:10 • 4min

Capturing Innovation: The iPhone Photographer's Journey

56:22 • 18min

Art and Love: A Journey of Connection

01:14:01 • 28min

Reflections on Art and Community

01:42:00 • 3min

Austin Mann is a talented photographer, adventurer, and technology influencer known for his captivating images and storytelling. With a passion for exploring the beauty of creation, Austin has traveled the world, capturing stunning photographs and sharing his experiences through his work. He has gained recognition for his expertise in using Apple products, particularly the iPhone, as powerful tools for photography and has been featured in Apple's "Shot on iPhone" campaign.

This week, Barrett talks with Austin about his journey as a photographer, storyteller, and entrepreneur. They discuss the pivotal moments that shaped Austin’s career, from his early days of hustling for a job at National Geographic to his collaboration with Apple on the groundbreaking "Shot on iPhone" campaign. Austin talks about his relationship with his wife and fellow artist, Esther Havens, and how their shared passion for socially impactful storytelling and empathy-driven photography has guided their work. Austin also discusses the importance of curiosity, determination, and meaningful intent in his work, as well as the power of photography to challenge, inspire, and enable others to explore the beauty of the world around them.

In this episode:

(00:00) Intro
(05:11) - Austin's move to National Geographic
(15:29) - Early influences
(19:29) - The role of technology in photography
(23:50) - The future of photography in the age of AI
(32:47) - Austin’s college years and faith journey
(36:00) - A life-changing moment
(38:45) - Finding purpose through faith and photography
(43:04) - Austin reflects on his lightning photo
(49:20) - Early career and social impact work
(56:27) - First iPhone review and growing recognition
(01:07:34) - The Shot on iPhone campaign
(01:11:58) - The surreal experience of seeing your work on billboards
(01:14:39) - How Austin met his wife
(01:21:05) - Austin's unique proposal
(01:30:51) - Austin's mission and the life plan exercise
(01:36:43) - Who Austin is becoming

Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com.

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.