Meet Alina Navarrete | Adventure Photographer and Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alina Navarrete and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alina, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
My dream growing up was always to be a photographer and travel the world, exploring far off places and learning about local environments, wildlife, and people. As a kid, my mom would take me and my two sisters to the public library where I would spend hours reading through copies of National Geographic. I always carried my camera growing up and amassed thousands of photos and created short films with my friends, slowly finding my confidence as an artist.

After four years in college, feeling lost and confused, I found myself back behind the lens. I rediscovered myself and stoked my passion for adventure. Being a photographer and filmmaker gives me the freedom to live the life I’ve always dreamed of while sharing the incredible world we live in with others. I’m able to tell stories and help protect our home planet while also having the most epic adventures. I can’t imagine doing anything else!

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 focuses on the relationship between humanity and the outdoors. There are so many memories made through exploration and adventure and I want to inspire others to find their own paths outside. These moments show the true spirit of ourselves, making for stunning art.

I’ve been told my art is nostalgic, making you yearn for a moment you weren’t in but inspires you to recreate for yourself. That’s exactly how I want my work to make you feel. It doesn’t matter if it’s a otherworldly sunrise or a stolen photo of laughter on trail.

I started taking family photos and shooting weddings in college but I knew that wasn’t what my heart truly loved. Taking a leap to the outdoor industry felt unsure but yet, it was exactly what I needed to do. Because I graduated in December right before the historical year that was 2020, I had a lot of time to hone my skills and learn how to pitch my story ideas. I was able to work with Adobe to produce a short film for a project that focused on female business owners in the outdoor industry and it completely changed my life.

Working in the outdoor industry is tough, I won’t lie. Especially as a woman. You have to be willing to put yourself out there and go the extra mile. I’ve worked as a model, second-shooter, website designer, marketing consultant, and tons more roles just to get my foot in the door. This lets me make connections with amazing artists, business owners, brands, and incredible people that I’ve been blessed to work with. I’ve learned to say yes to opportunities even if you don’t think you’re good enough. The most epic trips and work I’ve created have been last-minute invites that I didn’t think I deserved. If you’re stoked about your work, people will see that and want to work with you.

At the end of the day, I’m a photographer who found belonging and confidence in the outdoors and I hope to share that with others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First, we have to hit up Morrison Joe for a solid cup of coffee on our way to a morning hike. I love their black raven latte (iced with oat milk, please!) and we take our pup with us and grab her a treat. Bonfire Burritos is always my first choice for breakfast on the road and you can sometimes find them in local coffee shops!

I love taking people up to the front-range on their trips out to Denver because it’s accessible and there are truly awesome spots! I grew up in Roxborough so I love visiting the state park and the Indian Creek Wilderness area is stunning, especially in the fall when the aspens begin to change.

One of my favorite places to grab a bite and a good beer is Denver Black Shirt Brewing. Their pizzas are super unique and they always have a rotating beer selection (and usually a kombucha) that I love. And I’ll stop at any taco food truck I can find!

Of course, I’m always on the hunt for a solid deal on outdoor gear so we’d have to hit up Wilderness Exchange. Another one of my favorite things to do in the city is run with a local running group! There are so many in the area to join and they usually consist of a post-run beer or hang out.

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?
I owe so much of my artistic life to my mom who fostered the love of adventure in me from a baby. I grew up off-roading and exploring the most rugged parts of the United States, falling in love with nature and learning how to respect it. She bought me my first film camera when I was seven, printed my favorite photos for our home, helped me film family road trips, and has celebrated every win in my career.

The last three years I’ve been supported by my incredible husband who never stops pushing me to pursue more. He champions the art I make while helping me build my confidence as a business owner. As a fellow adventurer and outdoor-lover, we’ve travelled so many miles together and it’s truly changed how I see my art and career.

Website: https://www.alinaoutdoors.co

Instagram: @alinaoutdoors

Facebook: @alinaoutdoors

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpwTVNe7JUKfAtthNg6cYTA

Image Credits
First photo of Alina by Berty Mandagie
Remaining 8 photos by Alina Navarrete