Behind the Lens: My Chat on Full Time Photographer

I recently joined Jon Stell on his podcast, Full Time Photographer, and we had such a great conversation about my journey into photography, what inspires me, and the challenges of this ever-evolving industry.

We talked about how my background in science and the military shaped my approach to creativity, why personal work is at the heart of what I do, and even the high-pressure moments—like having just a few minutes to photograph Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, for The Wall Street Journal.

What I loved most about this chat was the chance to reflect on how I’ve grown as a photographer and storyteller. Whether it’s capturing portraits, interiors, or food, every project feels like its own journey—and this conversation really made me appreciate all the twists and turns along the way.

Scroll down for the partial transcript, or listen to the episode here: [Full Time Photographer]. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed recording it!

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Welcome and Introduction

Jon Stell:
Welcome, listeners, to Full Time Photographer! If this is your first time here, this podcast takes you behind the lens into the world of successful photography businesses. I’m your host, Jon Stell, and I’ve spent years honing the craft and art of marketing as a full-time photographer.

In this show, we explore strategies that transform passion into profession—everything from branding and visibility to SEO, social media, and client relationships. Expect expert interviews, practical tips, and inspiration whether you’re an established pro or just starting out. Let’s navigate the marketing maze together, one click at a time!

Today, we’re speaking with photographer, artist, and storyteller Helynn Ospina. Her work captures the beauty of liminal spaces—light, shadow, rolling fog, and wind-blown curtains. With clients like Airbnb, WeWork, and the New York Times, Helynn’s work bridges commercial and fine art photography.

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Origins and Background

Jon Stell:
Helynn, where are you from, and what’s the market like where you live?

Helynn Ospina:
I live in Santa Cruz, about an hour outside San Francisco. The Bay Area is known for its food and tech industries, so there’s a lot of work for photographers in those spaces. It’s different from LA—it has its own vibe.

Jon Stell:
Are you originally from California?

Helynn Ospina:
No, I was born in Colombia and immigrated to the U.S. as a child. My family moved a lot—New York, New Jersey, Florida, even Canada. I graduated high school in Florida and knew I had to leave. Florida’s a place where, if you don’t leave early, you can get stuck.

I joined the Marines after high school and spent four years in service, including time stationed in Japan. Afterward, I went to undergrad in San Diego, studying biology, and worked in biotech for several years.

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Transitioning to Photography

Jon Stell:
How did you go from biotech to photography?

Helynn Ospina:
I loved science, but I wasn’t doing the kind of hands-on fieldwork I had envisioned. A friend asked what I’d do if I could choose anything, and I said, “I’d be a photographer.” That led me to take evening classes at the Academy of Art, and my journey began.

Photography had always been part of my life—I shot for the school newspaper and worked in darkrooms—but this was my first structured learning experience.

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Evolving as a Photographer

Jon Stell:
When did you decide to pursue photography professionally?

Helynn Ospina:
After completing my MFA, I took a break from shooting. Art school can overcomplicate creativity. I worked as a studio retoucher and later moved to Santa Cruz, where I started making my own work again.

There wasn’t a single “aha” moment. It’s an ongoing process of growth and learning, embracing the creative highs and lows.

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Shooting Style and Projects

Jon Stell:
Your portfolio features stunning portraits, interiors, and food photography. What’s your approach to these different genres?

Helynn Ospina:
Interiors appeal to my detail-oriented, scientific side—everything needs to be precise. Portraits are more about connection. When photographing busy professionals, like CEOs, I have just minutes to establish rapport and create authentic, engaging images.

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High-Pressure Editorial Work

Jon Stell:
You photographed Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google. How did that assignment come about?

Helynn Ospina:
It was for the Wall Street Journal. I had just 5–10 minutes after his interview to shoot. Preparation was key—researching his background to find common ground helped us connect quickly. He was gracious, and the images turned out great despite the tight timeline.

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The Role of Personal Work

Jon Stell:
How do you stay ahead of the curve in such a competitive industry?

Helynn Ospina:
Personal work is crucial. It allows me to experiment and refine my voice. Most of the work on my website is personal. I also draw inspiration from workshops and creative collaborations, even outside photography.

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Final Thoughts

Jon Stell:
This has been a fascinating conversation, Helynn. Where can people find your work?

Helynn Ospina:
You can visit my website at helynnospina.com or follow me on Instagram at @helynn.ospina

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Jon Stell:
Thank you so much for sharing your journey and insights with us today. It’s been a pleasure!

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