By Yacht Week
Posted on 20th September 2019
Ever wondered what it takes to work as an official Day 8 Content Creator?
To be part of the leaders in the field out on the open tides and crazy mountain rides; capturing people living their best lives, one week at a time, one shot at a time. A somewhat daunting task for even the most prolific of creators - some might say.
In order to thrive in this unique working environment you need to be creative, laidback and know how to get the right shot under ever-changing circumstances. The pace is fast, no two days look the same and the need to be proactive, whilst maintaining a smiley positive outlook, is key. Flexibility is a must. In events, everything is subject to last minute change. It's a marathon, not a sprint; battery levels (personal and tech) can drain in a flash. Prioritising editing alongside shooting time? Vital - and tougher than it initially seems. Ultimately you'll need to find the right balance between work, play, and, well? More work.
While you don't necessarily have had to come from an events background; we have worked with wildlife photographers, landscape photographers, and creatives who're still studying, visual story-telling needs to be your sole passion and the driving force behind your career.
And if that insight into the role's not enough, we caught up with some of our photographers from the 2019 season to give you all the tips you need to create and leave your mark on TYW and TSW content.Read on for the method to the madness from our finest creatives:
”I would say the biggest thing is confidence! Having the confidence to walk up to a group of people you’ve never met and introduce yourself. You need to make people feel comfortable in your presence and to believe in your abilities. This will shine through in your photos. Enabling you to capture true moments.”
-- Michael Colclough
”What stuck out most for me is the sense of escapism, which I don’t feel is represented enough. It’s not just parties on this experience, for a lot of people it’s a time to escape and reflect. It’s so refreshing to be surrounded by so many people trying to make the most of this opportunity. I’ve never been surrounded by so many people NOT on their phones, getting to really know other guests and share memories.
Not being afraid to try new things, get creative and think outside the box. Focus less on getting as many photos as you can and think more about what sells this experience. The experiences that surprise you or that you didn’t expect to have on this trip. The things that all the guests selfies or boomerangs won’t capture.”
-- Huckleberry Mountain
”Working for TYW as a content creator is a dream come true. The amazing staff, guests, events and beautiful locations make every week feel unrealistic. I’ve learned that being patient and trusting my own abilities make content more natural and consistent. The trust that TYW has in their creators is something I’ve never experienced anywhere else.”
--Mike Verstraten
”Being a content creator at The Yacht Week is not just a summer job - it’s a life changing journey.You get to know so many incredible people from all around the world and your creativity peaks. Beautiful people, smiles, hugs, connections, friendships, stunning landscapes, culture and creative improvement. That pretty much encapsulates the experience. You’re surrounded by nice and supportive people. I recommend this experience to anyone who wants to discover more, meet more, enjoy more, live more.”
-- Mathilde Metarie
Most importantly, you need to have a great energy. You’ll meet people from all around the globe with different backgrounds and perspectives, so being open-minded is also a must to be able to translate this into your content in every setting and scenario.
Having confidence in your work is key. You’ll be the one having to decide how to approach a specific event in terms of creativity and execution.
Also being professional is hugely important. You definitely should have fun because it is a blast, and this will reflect on the content, but you should also be smart and pace yourself to be able to meet your duties and make your deadlines.
Gear is important but not as much as creativity and being at the right place at the right time. Of course the more options you have the better, and planning ahead will only make your job easier.
Finally, be yourself. It might sound cliché but it’s key because I think people value authenticity. Enjoy each moment because it goes by so fast!"
--Juan Moncayo
It’s not just about creating content, it’s about making connections. You create bonds in this little community and everyone ends up becoming one big family.
Get your camera ready and be reactive in every situation as there are so many unexpected moments to capture. And don’t forget your dry bag! It is your best friend.
--Min Ryu
First and foremost you need to love traveling and adventure. If you like that studio lifestyle with controlled lights and perfectly posing models - then this is not for you. Know your gear and be ready for capturing the moment. There’s no worse feeling than a blurry snap of the perfect backflip.
Always look for different angles and arty shots. I know it’s hard to give a different perspective of that over-instagrammed circle raft, but that’s where creativity is pushed.
You’ll be constantly surrounded by people. Be social. Make the most out of it, blend in, ask for models, have fun and let your creativity flourish.
--Chris Economou
“This is my second year in a row that I’ve worked as a Content Creator for The Yacht Week, and it is without doubt the highlight of my summer for the second year running. Not in my wildest dreams would I have thought that I’d have experienced what I did this year. I mean, I hung out of a plane to shoot with the Red Bull Air Force Sky Diving Team, shot backstage with The Chainsmokers, partied day and night on yachts, in private forts and open air clubs, visited some of the most beautiful Islands around Croatia and hiked to some of the most stunning viewpoints but most importantly, I met like-minded people from all over the world and made some incredible friends along the way.
The people you meet on The Yacht Week are what makes it so enjoyable, from the incredibly friendly and welcoming staff to the guests who just want to make sure you’re having as good a time as them.
The Yacht Week is not only the most enjoyable job I’ve had, but I have a lot to thank the team at Day 8 for the opportunities and doors that TYW has opened for me since.”
--Chris Priestley
So there you have it. Not as easy as it looks eh? If you think you've got what it takes, head over and apply.
And finally, a HUGE thanks to all of the above magicians behind the ‘Gram that have one-by-one become a part of TYW fam.