Camrin Dengel - Slow Living in the American West • Mountain & Prairie

Camrin Dengel – Slow Living in the American West

Camrin Dengel is a professional lifestyle photographer who lives and works on the quiet side of the Teton Mountain Range in Teton Valley, Idaho. Her work focuses on a broad range of subjects, with an emphasis on sustainable agriculture, hunting, fishing, and life in and around her mountain community. In her work and leisure, Camrin is a devoted proponent of slow living, and she strives to approach her profession and life in a manner that is intentional, simple, meaningful, and positive.

Growing up in Valdez, Alaska gave Camrin a unique perspective and toughness (she calls it “stubbornness”) that have allowed her to pursue her passion for art full time, while staying true to her ideals and enjoying a slow-living lifestyle. She attended college on a running scholarship with the intention of becoming an engineer, but decided midway through that art and photography were her true calling. After graduation, she moved straight to Teton Valley where she has built a life and business centered around documenting the people and places that make the American West such a special place to live.

20161014-_dsc7316 — Photo: Camrin Dengel

I’ve spent a lot of time in Teton Valley and can honestly say that Camrin’s work captures the landscapes and lifestyle more authentically than any artist I’ve ever seen. She is obviously a talented photographer, but she is also a super-interesting person who has managed to sidestep a good deal of the “busyness” and distractions that dominate many of our lives. In our conversation, we discuss her career trajectory, and also her love for the community of Teton Valley. We dig deep into the idea of slow living, and she offers some thoughts on ways for people to adopt a slower, more intentional lifestyle. As usual, we discuss favorite books, documentaries, and challenges and opportunities facing the American West.

20160920-_dsc3709 — Photo: Camrin Dengel

This is a really fun episode full of lots of great info. Be sure to check out the episode notes for links to everything we discuss. Hope you enjoy!

All photos courtesy of Camrin Dengel

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Episode Notes

Topics Discussed

2:30 – How Camrin describes her work

3:50 – Good example of Camrin’s work

5:30 – Teton Valley explained

7:25 – How she ended up in Teton Valley

8:30 – Transition from adventure photography to lifestyle

9:50 – Thoughts on slow living

10:45 – Ways to live slowly as effortlessly as possible

13:25 – Being intentional with social media

14:20 – Advice for adopting a slower lifestyle

15:30 – Growing up in Alaska

16:35 – Unique aspects of growing up in Alaska

18:50 – How Alaska shaped Camrin’s perspective

20:05 – College years in California

21:15 – From engineer student to artist

23:15 – Time with the Alaska Marine Conservation Council

24:35 – Similarities between fisherman, ranchers, and farmers

27:10 – Camrin’s definition of conservation

28:00 – Thoughts on fishing and hunting

31:45 – How Camrin developed the confidence to follow her passion

33:15 – Role models and mentors

35:10 – Other possible career paths

36:45 – Advice to aspiring photographers

39:00 – Photography advice

40:30 – Book recomendations

41:20 – Slow living resources

42:45 – Favorite documentaries

44:20 – Surprising activities

48:00 – Favorite place

49:20 – Ideas for off the beaten path experiences in Alaska

51:00 – The insanity of the Mt. Marathon

55:15 – Biggest challenge facing the American West

57:30 – Request of the listeners

58:50 – Connect with Camrin online

Information Referenced

Category: Blog, Podcast

Tags: Artists, Craftsmanship, Creativity

Camrin Dengel – Slow Living in the American West