Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Wacht.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My first job was reporter/photographer for a small, local newspaper. That inspired my love of photographic storytelling. I continued for several years to work for news publications allowing me to branch out into documentary photography. I soon started applying this style to event photography — weddings, quinceñeras, etc. I still do documentary and commercial photography along with occasional events, headshots, and products.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting my own business was a struggle. I don’t have a business background, and creative and technical knowledge of photography isn’t enough to make a business successful. I learned how to run a business over time, but I still struggle with marketing and business development.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I know it’s not a popular or advised approach, but I consider myself a photo-generalist. I enjoy and practice many different types of photography, and I love to fit in where I’m needed. Through my journalism work, I have developed a storytelling style. I love to take photos that tell stories, that include elements of movement, conflict, accomplishment, emotion … something that moves the viewer.
How do you think about happiness?
My girlfriend makes me happy! Besides her, I find a lot of pleasure in tabletop role playing games. They fulfill several needs that I have. They are another creative outlet (like my photography) that really challenges and unleashes my imagination. They are also intellectual — lots of problem solving and team building involved. They are also inherently social, and I really enjoy being around the people with whom I play. In fact, I’ve recently started another side business as a professional game master, specializing in small, in-person one shots and corporate teambuilding adventures.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.MikeWachtPhoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikewachtphoto/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikewachtms/
- Other: https://www.DMMotherUniverse.com
