Ishita Dharnidharka, a travel and adventure influencer talked to Greenroom about how her switching careers has led to a fulfilling journey. She is currently the co-founder of Type2Adventures, a trekking and outdoor adventure company.
What drove your interest in photography? Is this what you have always wanted to do?
For a couple of years, I did some freelance writing for magazines. I also majored in psychology and was a counselor for a while. In 2014, I remember going on a trek with my camera and clicked a few amateur shots. My love for mountain and adventure made it clear to me that this is what I wanted to do.
Did you know right away that this was going to be your career?
Yes, I met a photographer on the trek who made me realize this could be a career. I wanted to do it the right way. So, I came back from the trek and immediately enrolled myself in some photography classes.
How long did it take for your Instagram account to take off?
I honestly don’t remember when I started posting frequently. It started out as a fun, social media thing where I posted some of my travel photos. Being an influencer or travel blogger wasn’t common then, so I didn’t think too much about it. I realized, probably a year later, that my Instagram account was gaining a good amount of followers.
With so much competition, how do you constantly push yourself to generate new content?
I put in long hours into my work. I don’t let what other Instagrammers do bother me. I keep it simple by posting what I enjoy. Anyone who follows my account will know that I am not on the app every day. I focus more on the quality of my photos.
I see that you have worked with a few big brands including Nokia. How do you choose them?
I only work with brands to which I can relate to. The brand’s tone has to align with the travel and adventure kind of content that I post. If it doesn’t, then collaborating with a brand will not be beneficial to either of us.
Any advice for an upcoming photographer or Instagrammer who is looking to become an influencer?
Of course, even though photography is a saturated market when you focus on skills and create good content, people will take notice.
What do you enjoy doing apart from your work?
I love traveling, so I guess I am lucky that it is a major part of my job. I also run a trekking company. Apart from this, I do read a lot of books and enjoy spending time with my friends.
Thanks, Ishita! We are quite excited to see what you have planned for the future. That was fun and hope to see you back on Greenroom soon.
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