Briefly describe your job.
I am an Adventure Specialist, organizing and planning tailor-made safaris and photographic workshops to Africa.

How long have you been working in this field?
Unofficially 10 years, officially 3 years.

When and how did you decide to choose this career?
My parents are both originally from South Africa, and when I made my first "real" visit to this beautiful continent, I fell in love. A few years later after graduating college with degrees in Political Science and Sociology, I wanted to pursue my photographic passions...far from anything I "studied". There were two options for me: get formal training at an art/photography school or apply to work as apprentice/assistant for the top photographers in their respected specialties. I choose the latter option, assisting and learning about the business of a commercial photographer from the best.

I was very knowledgeable with the mechanics and skills a photographer needed, being self-taught and learning from friends who were professionals, but I had to refine my skills for working in the commercial environment alongside art directors, advertisers, and clients. Like anything else in life, 90% is knowing the business, 10% is the actual application of your skill. FYI, If you are interested in assisting the best within the industry, visiting your local ASMP.org chapter is a great place to start!

While assisting, I was able to work on projects that included portraits of iconic people from Jack Nicklaus to Donald Trump, but my real passion was to be behind the lens. I started working on my own portfolio (most important to any photographer, which represents who you are as an artist) obtaining my own client base, becoming a NIKON sponsored professional, and found myself passionate about corporate, architectural, and motor-sport lifestyle photography. Traveling to many locations and interacting with people was the most enjoyable aspect of this fascinating career.

My life changed considerably with the advent of digital photography, which my generation grew up with. My darkroom was Photoshop and Lightroom, where chemicals were replaced with a computers algorithms and "sliders" on a screen.

The digital revolution changed photography for better and for worse. Because the equipment became very accessible to the average consumer, which was fantastic, the cost of photographic equipment become very feasible for the average person. With this came some downfalls, especially since everyone with a digital camera considered themselves a "pro-photographer". The difference between a weekend hobbyist and a professional career are now less polarized than ever before. The days of iconic editorial photographers such as Art Streiber or Lou Jones are unfortunately long-gone, being replaced by micro-stock and/or more budget-friendly options.

I therefore found it very challenging to compete in the commercial market, not wanting to undersell my product or undermine those surrounded by me in the industry. It was then, that I decided to limit my photographic projects, and pursue a travel company that complimented my photographic passions and personal experiences.

What education/training did you obtain to qualify you for your field?
On “paper”, I received degrees in Political Science and Sociology from the University of Florida. As most would have thought I was on a pre-law route, my life between the ages of 18-21 was full of personal discovery and admiration for life. I had no specific track I could/wanted to follow as my interests were very eclectic, and focusing on “one” idea was nearly impossible. One common passion I had was people. I was the kind of person that could talk to a stranger anywhere, and find a common thread. Some might think I define the word “GREGARIOUS”.

When I took a few general education classes in sociology, studying people and their evolution in society fascinated me. I feel that the understanding of people and global societies as a whole, was invaluable in giving me the education for a career that later found me, and what I truly am passionate about today. Understanding why people assimilate in cities or why Denmark prides itself on renewable energy is related to those who live there and unique characteristics to the individual and/or group.

The very same understanding is applied to my travelers. Where they live, their occupation, how they like to travel, their specific interests and hobbies, all become critical in planning the ideal travel experience. As I often tell people, you can visit Africa, or you can experience Africa…the choice is yours, but there is a significant difference in the journey you choose.

It was throughout college that my hobby as a serious photographer took its course, taking my camera with me wherever I went, photographing everything from a personal editorial to life on campus after Hurricane Wilma, to 24 hours of adrenaline at Daytona for the historic Rolex 24 motor race.

Through my personal contacts, I would often befriend individuals in the photography industry. If there was a photographer in the area that I admired, I would contact them to ask if they wanted a “friend” to join them on an assignment, or perhaps needed an assistant. If I were traveling to a foreign destination, I would do the same, inquiring about my interest and shared passion while visiting these areas. Not everyone responded, some kindly said no, but a few did say yes and have become my mentors and friends. Rejection is never easy, but take it as an opportunity to seek satisfaction. As one teacher always said to me growing up, “GOOD, BETTER, BEST, NEVER LET IT REST, TILL THE GOOD IS BETTER AND THE BETTER IS BEST”! This is my motto in life, both personally and professional. And even if you have to “pay” to learn, think about education as an investment for a better life, but make sure to have fun!

When I wanted to develop my travel company, I was fortunate to have visited many of these remote and exotic areas as a traveler, with my personal experiences from my photographic career allowing me to get a "real" perspective of the needs of our travelers. I do also visit the properties of our suppliers on a regular basis, giving me the necessary information about new amenities and latest geographic changes.

It is always said that once a hobby becomes a job, it is no longer fun…it is for this very reason why finding a career that you are truly passionate about will be the key to a life of success.

What was your first job in the field?
I never had a "first day" on the job, but had been unofficially recommending and planning itineraries for friends and family for many years.

Describe a typical day on the job?
What I like about this job most, is there is no "typical" day. I do need to stay organized with the requests of my travelers and suppliers, and to compensate with the difference in time change in most locations in Africa (6 to 7 hours ahead), I am up around 7:30am and finish working sometimes around midnight.

Because our travelers are located globally, SKYPE and E-MAIL are definitely helpful and necessary. On a daily basis, I will sometimes have new inquiries that need to be answered, or have travelers leaving tomorrow that have last minute questions before they depart.

The steps into planning a safari really are based upon the following principals: Where do you want to travel? What are your interests…wildlife, scenery, culture, city-life? What is your budget? How do you want to travel…do you want a luxurious experience or perhaps a more rustic-camping hands-on experience?

With the input of the traveler(s), I am then able to prepare customized itineraries that are specifically tailor made to the customer. No two itineraries are alike, which makes the experience very personal. I do have those that have a monetary amount they want to spend and trust I will plan an incredible experience with minimal input or direction, but I encourage all our travelers to actively participate in the planning process, as this will be most helpful in having a successful experience.

What do you like most about what you do?
The planning and intimacy of customizing the perfect dream vacation for a traveler(s). Africa is a unique destination, one that cannot be fully described until you experience the sounds and smells of the wild first hand. The people and cultures of Africa are what make the locations so special, and 85% of our travelers will visit Africa again.

Also being personally involved in many wildlife conservation and educational programs is personally satisfying.

What do you like least about your job?
There are a lot of hours that can go into customizing an itinerary, and sometimes the information provided can be misused and/or taken advantage of, with the traveler delaying their trip, or going with another tour.

Blogs and travel forums are a fantastic source and wealth of information, but because you visit an area once, regardless if your experience was good or bad – it does not make you an "expert".

I mention the above about blogs and “documented” information as being careful to use as one’s only source of information. It is very troubling that there is a lot of misinformation out there, whether it’s an old bush report from over a year ago that the traveler believes is current, or perhaps their friend had a bad experience because of one unusual circumstance, and believes this to be the norm. Speaking to a Destination Specialist, like me, becomes very critical when planning the best safari and travel experience possible. Often traveling to Africa myself 2 or 3 times a year is very valuable, and cannot necessarily be “documented”.

The best way to deal with these “issues” is to be as upfront and honest as possible. Like myself, I want the best and most current information possible. I read the same blogs, the magazine articles, and most importantly listen to past-traveler’s experiences. If 10 people travel to the same location and all 10 have an exceptional experience, I can feel confident in sending more people. But if one or two people have a bad experience, this statistical point cannot be used as a direct reference to make a decision on your travel plans, but rather as a point to be noted and made aware of if it continued to occur.

What has been the most rewarding experience so far in your career?
I have been able to travel to many places around the globe with contacts made in the travel and photography businesses. Also because of my involvement with NIKON, my photographic career has provided me the opportunity to share with others my travels with beautiful images.

My personal passion is sharing my love for Africa, wildlife, and photography with others. Hearing about the stories our travelers come back with ensure that my job has been perfected, and their experience has been unforgettable.

I, of course, love being behind the lens, but teaching others and seeing them get “the shot” gives me the greatest gratitude…knowing that I have now shared my knowledge and passion, the same way those before did for me.

What is the biggest challenge for you in this job?
Explaining to people that my passion is about having them experience Africa, not just see it. I have one opportunity to exceed the expectations of my travelers for this "once in a lifetime" journey.

Also, from a business perspective I am running a company that is purely based on the luxury of travel to exotic destinations...my livelihood is based on those wanting to experience the world.

What are the most important personal and professional skills necessary to succeed in your field?
Because no two itineraries are alike, understanding the specific interests, quality of travel, and budget of a traveler are all equally important. The planning process is very personal, listening to an individual's needs while also providing the best information is critical. There is no university "degree" that can train you to interact with people and translate your understanding of a geographic region and/or culture into their vacation.

“Self-Education” takes discipline and dedication. There is no rhyme or reason, but with my creative individuals, this is how we thrive to live. Reading technical news as well as commercial/business news is very important to staying current.

Africa was an easy destination to choose, as my entire family originates from South Africa. Being the first American born in my family, ironically on July 4th, gave me inspiration to discover my roots…I can proudly say I am a true “African-American”. I was extremely fortunate to see the globe at an early age, as my father would lecture internationally, combining a work/vacation experience for our family. I was given a “golden spoon”, but it was my responsibility and appreciation to know that I needed of this gift given to me, which allowed me to be successful.

Although taking the course Colonialism of Africa in college helped me understand the problems this continent faces today, it was mainly my personal experiences that gave me the most “real” insight and providing my education about these exotic destinations. Talking to the locals and reading their newspapers, is all part of the learning process. For me it wasn’t something I had to do, but what I wanted to do.

Being well organized and versed with computers and operational software is definitely a bonus. The digital age is here to stay, and is not going anywhere anytime soon. Although the photographic analog system has a unique place in history, and is still valuable today, the costs and access to these mediums makes it challenging in today’s market. The artistry and mechanics of photography will never change, but rather it is the production that continues to evolve. People feel that a digital camera gives simplicity to the user, and on the surface this is correct, but the knowledge required to work is specific and require a lot of knowledge.

Computers today are critical in cataloging image files, processing and reproducing images for clients, and without having a complete knowledge of image programs such as Photoshop and/or Lightroom will ultimately determine if you are going to have a hobby or career in photography. Understanding your rights as a photographer and the images you produce are very important.

Also by having a background in commercial photography, gives me insight into recommending the best photographic equipment to bring on a traveler's adventure. Renting is a great alternative for those not wanting to make a huge investment!

What could someone do to learn more about this field right now?
Travel / Adventure trade shows and seminars are a good place to start. Also many photo clubs and organizations put together specific programs related to photography, travel, volutourism, etc.

For those that do not know about volutourism, this is a term used which combines volunteering while being on a “vacation”. Some experiences and jobs are more specialized, while others are more relaxing. Sometimes you have to pay for these experiences, as they often relate to conservation, education, etc…but can be used to expense your trips if possible. There is a lot of information out there about this kind of travel, and specialists like myself that only plan volutourism itineraries.

What advice would you offer to students making a career choice or on work life itself?
Do what you are passionate about first, and secondly be creative in thinking about how to make money from it. Take opportunities to learn from the best…even if it “costs” you, and never tell yourself you have had enough education or you know enough about a specific subject.

As someone once said, “it is not about how many breaths we take, but about how many times our breath is taken away.”

CONTACT INFO: Brennan Rimer Safaris/Photo Workshops www.JourneysUnforgettable.com

Personal/Commercial Photography www.brphotographix.com