Interview: Annie Griffiths | National Geographic

TL;DR

A photographer discusses her accidental entry into photography, her experiences with National Geographic, and the joys and challenges of travel photography.

Transcript

I got started in photography kind of by accident I was in a journalism program and got a camera and decided I'd take a class just to learn how to use the camera and um two weeks later I changed my major my whole life I thought I'd be a writer and and there was something about being in that class going into a dark room watching you know being in tha... Read More

Key Insights

• 👻 Photography allows for a continuous learning and growth journey, providing endless opportunities for creativity and exploration.
• 💦 Working for National Geographic offers unique and diverse projects, shaping the photographer's career and experiences.
• 👯 Immersive travel experiences enable deeper connections with people from different cultures, creating lasting memories and facilitating communication beyond language barriers.
• 🛰️ The role of a photographer is both wonderful and challenging, requiring the ability to capture unique perspectives and tell compelling stories.
• 🫡 The photographer has a deep respect for her colleagues and pushes herself to exceed expectations with each project.
• 👻 Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities for successful photographers, allowing them to work in any environment.
• 👯 Photography offers the opportunity to connect with people from different cultures and spend time with them, creating meaningful connections.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the photographer's interest in photography start?

The photographer's interest in photography began when she took a class to learn how to use a camera and fell in love with the process of developing images in a darkroom.

Q: How did the photographer's first picture get published in National Geographic?

The photographer's first published picture came about when she received a phone call from the director of photography at National Geographic, who was looking for a picture of a hail storm. She took the opportunity and captured the image for publication.

Q: What role has National Geographic played in the photographer's career?

National Geographic has been a constant thread throughout the photographer's life, providing her with opportunities to work on various projects, exhibits, books, articles, and outreach programs. It has been her home for 30 years.

Q: How has travel affected the photographer's children?

The photographer's children have traveled to every continent, immersing themselves in different communities and cultures. This experience has made them confident travelers who understand and appreciate the differences among people around the world.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The photographer's passion for photography began when she took a class to learn how to use a camera and realized it was what she wanted to do.

• She had her first picture published in National Geographic after responding to a phone call from the director of photography.

• National Geographic has been her home for 30 years, and she has had the opportunity to work on various projects and assignments.