Hello everyone and welcome to the Photo Forward Podcast, where we explore the stories behind some of the greatest visual storytellers in the world. From their photographic origins, to finding work-life balance as creative professionals, to how to actually make a living as a photographer, videographer, or multimedia creator — we uncover what makes them tick and their shutters click. I’m your host, Ben Brewer.

When you hear the word “photojournalist” – What comes to mind? A warzone or conflict photographer? A sports shooter lugging a few supertelephoto lenses around the sidelines of a professional sporting event? Or maybe it’s the fly on the wall, spending countless hours following a singular subject, telling a singular, poignant story with images? Well, in my mind, it’s ALL of that and NONE of that. Let me explain

These tropes exist for a reason, they are often true. But today’s episode gets at the heart of photojournalism– applying our craft of using photos and videos to tell the most authentic, human story possible, visually. Photojournalism is everywhere and today’s guest shares her mindste and outlook as a photojournalist and editorial photographer AND how that’s helped her position herself as an expert in her craft, no matter her location.

Ruthie Hauge’s roots are in photojournalism and art.  She received a scholarship to attend Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, where she majored in photography and minored in drawing. She was hired as a Staff Photographer by Sun-Times Media in Illinois where she worked for almost 7 years and earning 18 State and National Photojournalism awards.  In the summer of 2012, Ruthie gave up her staff position to focus on her business and her new role as Mom. According to her bio, Before a long day of photography Ruthie's pre-game ritual includes 8+ hours of sleep, a burger, a playlist of Hall & Oates, and an iced white chocolate mocha. On assignment, Ruthie is usually doing whatever is necessary to get the best possible photo, whether it be sloshing through a ditch, balancing on the roof of a skyscraper, flying in a blimp or standing in a bathtub and She loves EVERY minute of it. Ruthie goes above and beyond for her clients while also capturing as much personality, life and storytelling in her images as possible.

In today’s episode, Ruthie and I dive in on treating your creative work as a business, how to get connected in new locations and building your tribe, and the importance of finding a partner who shares your values and complements your skills. Shownotes for today’s episode can be found at photoforward DOT media SLASH podcast. So, without any further ado, my interview with Ruthie Hauge.