Hey there.
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible photographer Mark Clennon, who did exactly that. Mark shares the real story of his leap from a 9-to-5 into the world of full-time commercial photography. We talk about the initial struggles, the community's pivotal role in his journey, and how he built a new life and career after moving to Los Angeles.
Society often frames a professional pivot as a failure. That perception can make changing our path feel scary, as we grapple with an uncertain future and the pride that keeps us from admitting we’ve changed our minds.
But the reasons for change are as varied and valid as we are. Perhaps we pursued a path thinking it was what we wanted, only to discover we were mistaken. Maybe we’ve accomplished everything we set out to do in one chapter and now long for a new horizon. Or sometimes, there is no grand justification, only a quiet, persistent pull toward something different.
Every reason is valid, my friend.
Mark’s story is more than a personal experience; it illuminates an essential and nearly universal step in the artist’s journey, the opportunity of something new.
I’m excited for you to listen to this conversation. I wish I had had this episode when I first started out as a commercial photographer. Mark shares the challenges and triumphs of defining your artistic voice and building a sustainable creative life on your own terms. Mark’s journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest risks lead to the most rewarding destinations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mark Clennon and His Journey
01:59 Early Creative Influences and Curiosity
04:14 The Gift of Photography and Initial Struggles
05:54 Building Community and Transitioning to Full-Time Photography
10:12 Taking the Leap: Quitting the Day Job
12:10 Navigating the Early Days of Freelancing
15:00 First Major Commercial Success and Learning the Trade
17:00 Relocating to Los Angeles: A New Chapter
19:03 Defining Artistic Identity and Signature Style
22:57 Creative Voice and Decision Making
30:26 Building Community in a New City
36:22 Learning from Challenges and Problem Solving
42:31 The Importance of Creative Play and Reflection
Connect With Mark:
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark.c/?hl=en
Mark’s Website:
https://www.markclennon.com
Listen to Mark’s TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/mark_clennon_finding_your_point_of_view
Support the Show
Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
Leave a review
Follow us on social media
Share with fellow creatives
Share this post