Launching an Outdoor Career Against the Odds

We’re pleased to share some good news today about a young friend who offers a rare bright spot in what has been a tough year for the outdoor industry. Trevor Clark picked an interesting time to start his outdoor adventure photography business – May of 2008. A lot has changed, for Trevor and for the economy, in the year since he first launched his venture.

The stats from this past year’s economic fallout need not be revisited, though they make Trevor’s story all the more worth telling. He’s a young man with an uncanny knack for sparking inspiration through storytelling. While photos are his medium of choice, he’s more than capable when it comes to wielding his words. Take this introductory snippet from his new website: www.trevorclarkphoto.com

My adventure began in Curitiba, Brazil where I was born to an American mother and a father who called Australia and New Zealand his "homes." The two sides of my family were on two different continents, and my beginning was on a third. Going to see family meant big trips, with expedition-quality logistics for my mother, three siblings and I to make (and miss) Indiana-Jones-style plane connections. . . . I loved it. I loved running through airports clinging to

Mom with a death grip. I loved having people speak languages to me that I didn't understand or whipping out my passport like a 21 year old proudly showing his/her real driver's license to a bouncer. I loved the feeling of getting on a plane and taking off, or waking up and landing. I loved the smell of the air in a new place and the anticipation of what it might bring. I loved everything about the unexpected, and I still do.

Trevor’s touched down with a broad cross-section of the Patagonia crew over this past year, and those who have had the pleasure of spending time with him can say confidently that he’s been dealt his share of the unexpected, and responded in fine style. At time when numerous businesses are folding, down-sizing, or otherwise trembling in fear, Trevor’s a fresh reminder that a whole-hearted and courageous commitment to one’s passion is the most reliable strategy for success.

You can read about what it was like for Trevor to ditch it all and start from scratch here and follow his latest exploits on his recently updated blog.

And of course, don’t miss a chance to get inspired for your own adventures by checking out some current selections from his online gallery.