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

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

Key Takeaways

Continuously reflect on your personal and professional journey to align your actions with your mission and values. Integrating your values and faith into your life and work will lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful career.
Pursue your passions with determination and creativity, even in the face of challenges. Taking initiative and being persistent are essential qualities for success.
Being vulnerable and sharing personal stories and experiences can inspire and connect with others.
Be ready to adapt and change. These are foundational skills in both personal and professional life.
Embrace technology as a tool to enhance your craft, but don't lose sight of the importance of human connections.

Quotes

“You develop technique so you can get out of the mind and into expression. That's where the magic lies, that's where the connection lives.” ~ Austin Mann

“Having a little bit of a spine and conviction is something that people will respect and maybe even follow. And I think it's a good leadership lesson.” ~ Austin Mann

“The better that you know your subject, the better you can tell the story, and the more interesting that story will be.” ~ Austin Mann

“It's really rewarding to play a little bit of a role in kind of being at the intersection of art and technology, being a passionate artist and passionate technologist and hoping to kind of bridge those worlds and offer understanding and perspective on both sides.” ~ Austin Mann

“Whether it’s this podcast interview or a business or a project or whatever, I always ask if it lines up with my mission statement, which is to explore and illuminate the beauty of creation and to challenge, inspire, and enable others to do the same.” ~ Austin Mann

Links