Indian River County – Photographer Spotlight Series!
As we wrap up our Photographer Spotlight Series, we have seen some incredible photographers! Our last selection in this series is no stranger to the Indian River County Community. You can even see his work on the cover of our 2021 Visitor Guide! This month’s selection is Joe Semkow (@jsemkow87). Joe’s motto is to “inspire kindness”, which is exactly what he does through his work and his photogrpahy.
Continue reading to learn more about this talented photographer!
1. How long have you lived or have been visiting Indian River County?
8 years, came back here after I got out of the military. My parents retired here.
2. What do you love the most about experiencing our county?
The beauty of the beaches and the community atmosphere. Living and knowing you can make a difference in town and the community is on board.
3. What’s your favorite place in our county to shoot? And Why?
Everywhere! Vero and surrounding areas have awesome photo spots and even better it’s always changing. From sunrise to sunset you never know what you are going to capture and preserve.
4. How long have you been a photographer?
Almost 7 years, started here in Vero Beach!
5. Are you self-taught or did you go to school to become a photographer?
Self-taught! Lots of missed shots and Tips from some of the greats here in Vero! Todd Jackson, Joe Rimkus, Tracy H & many more. As a photographer, you’re never done learning. You are always looking for new ways to capture and stand out!
6. What motivated you to get behind the lens?
I lived on the beach pretty much my whole time here in Vero and I started capturing photos that people liked and it grew from there. I wanted to be different and show a unique style that helped me stand out! I wanted people to be able to close their eyes and feel as if they were actually there enjoying it.
7. What is your favorite area to photograph that is off the beaten path?
THE OCEAN! THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SPOT ON OUR EARTH! THE BLUES, ANIMALS & Just Never knowing what you’re going to capture
8. Is this a hobby or your business?
Little of both! Hobby and I help as many as I can with images and videos to promote them!
9. What can our followers and readers expect from you in the future in terms of creative expression?
A Lot. In order to free your mind, you need to feed it with new and exciting things & for me, it’s pushing my limits and capturing things to show the world and our community that we live on a planet that only we can save and preserve.
A brief bio of yourself…
Well, I am 34 served in the USCG and love the water! I love to inspire people to be the most authentic they can be and not to be afraid of failing. Failing is part of the journey it’s the only way to succeed. In addition, always be yourself and try new things. Block out what people say or use it to motivate you more. Don’t find a path and take it WANDER GET LOST AND FIND A PATH NO ONE HAS BEEN BEFORE!
We hope you enjoyed learning more about Joe’s journey in photography and how our county has inspired him to take such beautiful photos. If you would like to stay up to date on all Joe’s work please visit jsemkow.com or via IG @jsemkow87.
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