One thing that Instagram has done, more than any other form of social media, is showcased the lifestyles of our fellow humans. Amongst those lifestyles, one of the most popular, at least for digital voyeurs, are folk like Becca Skinner, who live life as an on-the-road adventure, not giving in to the dour reality of cubicles and whatever else passes for normality these days. Becca is part of a new generation of creative adventurers who refuse to give in to the societal status quo.
GALLERY: Instagrammer of the Week: Becca Skinner (PHOTOS)
With a feed chock full of breathtaking landscapes, free wheeling days, and just enough ruggedness to make you check the mailbox in anticipation of that new Patagonia catalog, Becca has found a way to make a living out of loving life, simply by documenting her every day existence.
Read her interview below, give her a follow on Instagram, and then check out her takeover of our own account over the next few days.
How did you get started on Instagram?
I started my Instagram a few years ago when it was just getting started. But just in the past year I’ve been using it as a business tool.
You live alone out of your truck? Is it ever scary, being out in those remote places? How do you get such elaborate shots of yourself?
I am sometimes alone, sometimes with friends and always with my dog, Veda. It’s definitely sometimes scary but traveling with a dog makes me feel much safer. All of my self-portraits are taken with a remote.
What draws you to shoot what you do?
Growing up in an adventurous family has made me really passionate about protecting and exploring the outdoors. Getting to spend a lot of time is a plus, but it also includes traveling and getting to work with some incredible people. The inspiration that comes with the job drives me forward.
What advantages has Instagram gleaned for you? What is the best adventure or opportunity you’ve had because of it?
Instagram has been an awesome networking tool and option for talking directly to companies. It’s my go-to portfolio for recent work and immediate feedback. The more important aspect of it is that it’s allowed me to meet people I’m not sure I would have otherwise. Some of my greatest friends have started out as social media connections first!
Any advice for people to have a little more adventure in their lives?
Alastair Humphreys coined the term “microadventure,” and I love the concept. The idea behind microadventures is that you don’t have to buy a plane ticket around the world, that you can have an adventure twenty minutes outside of town or at a state park near your house. It’s a way to have an experience that you don’t have to quit your 9-5 and move into a van to get.
What are some of your favorite accounts?
@thenoisyplume @forestwoodward @tylersharpphoto and @kenetzel are some of my current go-tos for inspiration.