In the latest episode of "Travels with Jim and Rita," we had the pleasure of speaking with Julie Diebolt Price, a professional travel writer and photographer who has successfully turned her childhood passion into a flourishing career. This episode is packed with inspiring stories, practical advice, and a deep dive into the art of travel writing and photography. Julie’s journey is a testament to the idea that with dedication and passion, one can turn their hobbies into a rewarding profession.
Julie began her journey with a simple Brownie camera, capturing moments that fascinated her as a child. Little did she know, this hobby would blossom into a lifelong career. Despite an initial fear of English classes, Julie overcame her anxieties and developed a love for writing. She explains how the magic of seeing her work published drives her to continually improve her craft. The rewarding nature of travel writing lies in the ability to document experiences and share them with a broader audience, making distant places and cultures accessible to everyone.
One of the key topics Julie discusses is the balance between photography and writing. Capturing a travel experience through a lens is only half the story; the other half is documenting the emotions and narratives that accompany these images. Julie emphasizes the importance of timely writing after capturing travel experiences to ensure the memories and emotions are fresh. This practice not only enriches the storytelling aspect but also adds authenticity to the travel articles.
The episode also delves into the world of stock photography. Julie demystifies this field by explaining how anyone with a good eye for photography can contribute to stock agencies. With the advancements in smartphone technology, the barrier to entry has significantly lowered. Julie shares practical tips on capturing high-quality images using just a smartphone, eliminating the need for bulky equipment. This approach is particularly beneficial for travel photographers who prefer to travel light.
Julie’s passion for scenic destinations is evident as she talks about her favorite spots to photograph. From the romantic landscapes of Italy and France to the vibrant colors of Mexico and the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies, each destination offers unique photographic opportunities. Julie’s love for train travel over flights is also discussed, highlighting the joy of experiencing scenic routes and the practicality of traveling light.
In addition to travel writing and photography, Julie also mentors aspiring photographers. She shares her extensive knowledge through online courses, helping others navigate the complexities of digital photography. Julie’s philosophy is that a good photographer should strive to get it right in the camera first, a principle she carries over from her days of shooting with film. Digital photography has made it easier to enhance images, but the foundation of good photography remains the same.
For those interested in travel writing, Julie offers valuable advice on how to get started. She suggests beginning with local destinations to hone your skills and build a portfolio. Understanding composition, using tools like the grid on your phone camera, and learning basic editing techniques are crucial steps. Julie also emphasizes the importance of storytelling in both writing and photography. A well-composed image that tells a story can significantly enhance a travel article, making it more engaging for readers.
Julie’s books are another valuable resource for aspiring photographers and travel writers. Titles like "Baby Boomer's Guide to Digital Photography" and "Nine Steps to Stock Photography Success" offer in-depth insights and practical advice. Her upcoming books on travel photography and digital photography in today’s world promise to be equally informative.
In addition to her photography and writing, Julie has also ventured into creating coloring books using AI tools like DALL-E 3. This innovative approach has allowed her to produce unique and engaging content with minimal effort, showcasing her adaptability and creativity in using new technologies.
Julie’s journey from hobbyist to professional is truly inspiring. Her dedication to her craft, willingness to learn and adapt, and passion for sharing her knowledge with others make her a remarkable figure in the world of travel writing and photography. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to pursue a career in these fields.
Julie Dieolt Price’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your passions. Whether you’re an aspiring travel writer, a budding photographer, or simply someone who loves to explore the world, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice. Tune in to hear Julie’s journey, learn from her experiences, and get motivated to embark on your own adventures.
Follow the story of Jim and Rita, who sold their home to travel for the next few years here in this blog, and on the podcast "Travels With Jim and Rita", available on all major podcast platforms.
