We had the good fortune of connecting with Robbie Wright and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Robbie, what do you attribute your success to?
The key to my success? To be brutally hones, it’s all about being approachable and making real connections with people. Just because I have a camera, doesn’t mean I am a professional photographer. You have to connect with people, whether I’m shooting in studio or out in the field, I always bring my full energy and stay focused on the details to the best of my abilities. I try to make sure my clients feel like we’re a team. The photos WE create are theirs, and they have a say in every image I take. It builds a lot of trust and helps clients feel more at ease. I truly enjoy walking them through the process of what I’m seeing, what makes a pose look great, and if something doesn’t work, I let them know and explain why. It’s all about making them feel comfortable and understood, especially since not everyone is at ease in front of the camera. I can relate when it comes to not feeling that comfortable in front of a camera. Being a photographer, isn’t just about being talented, it’s about showing up, listening, and always working to improve.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My photography and graphics work is all about capturing authenticity, whether it’s senior portraits, real estate, or action shots, I really trying to create images that are different from all the other great photographers out there. I focus on building a connection with my clients because that’s where the magic happens. Image is everything!
What sets you apart from others?
Me! I try to make people feel comfortable in front of the camera and myself comfortable behind it. Not everyone feels natural when they’re being photographed, and I completely get that, I’m the same way. Taking time to explain everything, from why a certain pose works to why the lens cap needs to be off (always!), I make it a collaboration. My clients know they have a say in every shot, and that level of communication builds trust. It’s not just my vision; it’s ours.
What are you most proud of or excited about?
I love working in the studio and I feel there’s just something about having complete control over the environment that gets ideas flowing. On some Saturday nights I round up a few athletes I know, and we turn it into a creative hangout. We pull up Pinterest, bounce ideas off each other, and dive into concepts that range from water and paint to smoke and glitter. We’ve captured some pretty amazing and unforgettable images that I am really proud of.
Lately, I’ve been diving deeper into senior portraits, and it’s been a blast. Seeing the way the images connect with seniors and their families is something else. It’s especially rewarding when they walk away saying, “That was fun!” or “I felt really comfortable.” That’s what it’s all about, creating an experience where everyone feels like they’re part of the magic.
How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy?
For me to even get remotely where I am, I owe it all to my wife Jamie, and my son Kane. This year alone has been challenging to say the least and the two of them are by my side steering me in the right direction creatively and professionally. Kane is the first one I share all my ideas with. Kane will let me know if I have an idea that is brilliant or needs work. Kane and Jamie are also giving me a list of songs that the athletes love. When I post images on social media, I want songs that the kids love, not what I like. This year alone, I faced a lot of challenges, from figuring out the business side of things to building a client base. I am always on Pinterest or YouTube refining my work and learning from feedback.
What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of being adaptable and listening. Every client is different, every shoot is different, and you can’t force a formula. You have to stay open to new ideas, listen to what your clients want, and evolve your approach. Also, never underestimate the power of showing up early, being professional, and keeping the vibe relaxed and fun (lots of dad jokes).
What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
There are so many talented photographers out there, and I’m genuinely honored to be counted among them. Maybe my work resonates with you or with someone else, and that means a lot to me because my photography is deeply personal. I know how important these images are for families, parents especially. For me, it all started with my dad, and now I have those photos hanging in my home for my boys to see every day. They’re a reminder of what really matters, and that’s the kind of connection I hope my work can bring to others. I capture amazing people doing amazing things.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I had friends visiting. We head to some of our favorite places.
Day 1: Highlands Ranch & Local Eats
Start with a hike around Highlands Ranch Mansion, right by my place, for some amazing Colorado views.
Grab lunch at Los Dos Potrillos (my wife’s favorite) for some delicious Mexican food and margaritas.
Day 2: Red Rocks & Denver Brunch – Head to Red Rocks Amphitheater, views are breath taking (no pun intended).
Enjoy brunch at Snooze (my wife’s favorite spot), where the pancakes are legendary.
Day 3: Manitou Springs Day Trip
Spend the day in Manitou Springs, our family’s favorite spot.
Lunch at The Loop (another one of my wife’s favorites).
Walk around town, and be sure to stop at the penny arcade for some ice cream. Then head over to Scheels (Wife’s favorite)
Day 4: Head to Mt Evans, only fourteener in the world that is paved to the top. Stop in Idaho Springs at West Bound and Down (Wife’s favorite) She’s pretty good at picking great places to go.
Day 5: Boulder Adventure
Take a trip to Boulder for a hike at Chautauqua Park. Visit, Pearl Street Mall, perfect for people-watching and shopping.
Grab lunch at The Kitchen, which has great food and a laid-back vibe.
Return to Highlands Ranch for a casual dinner at C.B. & Potts.
Day 6: Vail Fun (Wife’s favorite)
Spend the day in Vail, hanging out and checking out the town, or just relax by the river. Then finish the day back in Highlands Ranch at Lazy Dog or Cranellis Italian Kitchen (best in town)
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Brett Seeley. Brett is an amazing human. Taught me all I know about studio lights, posing, and the business side of photography. Brett is extremely patient, kind, funny, and beyond talented. When you think you have seen a lot of images, Brett throws a curve ball and creates an image that is more art than a photo. He does not hesitate to help anyone or create something to give back to the community.
Website: https://www.rkwimages.com
Instagram: @rkw
Twitter: @rkwimages
Facebook: @rkwimages
Youtube: @rkwimages