Becoming a camera brand ambassador is the dream of a lot of photographers, representing a certain echelon of professional status and of course, meaning you get to use a lot of expensive top-end gear without having to pay for the privilege. However, this photographer made it into the ambassador program of a major brand and then decided to leave it, and this enlightening video features him discussing why he made the decision.
Coming to you from Mitchell Kanashkevich, this interesting video essay discusses why he decided to leave Panasonic’s ambassador program. Being offered an ambassador position by a major brand can be one of the most exciting moments in a creative’s career, but Kanashkevich gives us a rare glimpse at the other side of things, and I think it is really important to see, particularly as it provides a more balanced look at things. I was especially intrigued by his discussion of the politics at play. As he pointed out, companies do not just give ambassadors free rein all the time; they want to see a return on their investments, and as such, you may find your creative impulses stifled or pushed in directions you would rather not see them go. Check out the video above for the full story from Kanashkevich.