Meet Orion Kueffner | Photographer & Inspiration Leader & Mentor

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

Hi Orion, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I believe that when you break down risk, you always come to a crossroads. I see it all the time in the world around me. Life presents opportunities that tempt us to risk it all, and that’s what keeps my fire alive. I’m someone who has taken on things others might see as crazy from mountain biking to climbing cliffs with no harness just to get the right photo, I’ve taken risks for the sake of passion.

On the other hand, I’m not always chasing an adrenaline rush. I believe we have to weigh our options. The first big decision I made for myself was realizing that photography wasn’t just a hobby; it was something I was committed to, no matter what. Photography gives us the freedom to see not just through my eyes, but through the eyes of the beholder those who take the time to just stare, like with all great art, and how it’s just magical, taking you away from yourself.
The second was choosing to be a supportive partner to someone else.

You have to accept that your path will lead you in unexpected directions. You just need to breathe, because what you’re doing is building the foundation of your ability. I also live with ADHD, and life has never been a straight path for me. I’ve had to carve my own way. ADHD still gets in my way frequently, but every day I continue to learn from it, and having a support network really helps me thrive. Growing up through 2000–2019, I always adapted to a norm that never felt quite right, but that taught me how to make risk part of my rhythm.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Growing up with ADHD, dyslexia and PTSD, created a landscape of unique hurdles, but it also unexpectedly fostered a deep well of creativity, transforming it into a vital sanctuary where I could authentically express myself and make sense of my experiences. The process of thriving in the face of these adversities has deeply ingrained within me the understanding that personal growth is an ongoing, fluid evolution, rather than a static or predetermined destination. My artistic journey has always been defined by its deeply personal, raw, and unconventional essence, allowing me to explore the complexities of my inner world. While I may have once felt a strong desire for external validation and approval, I now place a far greater emphasis on self-respect, creative autonomy, and the freedom to continuously reinvent and reshape myself, pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve.

Through the mediums of photography, poetry, and other forms of creative expression, I find profound meaning and a deeper understanding of the intricacies and complexities of our world, particularly during periods when creative pursuits and artistic expression are often marginalized or undervalued. The core driving force behind my artistic endeavors lies in the powerful connections I forge with others who recognize and resonate with their own narratives and life experiences within the layers of my art, creating a sense of shared humanity and understanding.

A defining trait of my approach is unwavering persistence; I am consistently dedicated to refining my craft, pushing my limits, and exploring new avenues of expression. My art transcends the unattainable pursuit of perfection, instead wholeheartedly embracing truth, resilience, and reflective exploration, allowing the authentic self to shine. It is my firm belief that every individual possesses a unique story that is inherently deserving of expression, and that the act of creation should never be limited by the need for external authorization or validation, but rather fueled by a genuine and intrinsic desire to connect, inspire, and leave a lasting mark on the world.

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?
Here are my favorite spots in Colorado.

The Roastery – Buena Vista, Colorado
A small mountain town coffee shop where you always feel welcome and get to be surrounded by 14ers. Also, my wife grew up in BV, so it will always be a special place.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The most underrated national park, in my opinion. Magical year-round. Sadly, recently we have had to bear wildfire season.

Buckaroos Slices & Scoops – Montrose
Need a quick bite or want to support a local business and a good cause at the same time.

Base Camp Beer Works – Grand Junction
Some of the best beers to come out of Colorado.

Namaste Nepal – Grand Junction
This place will leave you wanting to come right back, not only because it’s delicious but also because you are treated like family!

X Games – Aspen
Catch some winter sports action and feel connected to the extreme action with fellow winter fans from all over the world.

Hugo’s – Glenwood Springs
If you’re looking for a romantic evening, this is the place to eat and enjoy yourself with the person or people you love most.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs – Glenwood Springs
So far, my favorite spa and hot spring in Colorado. There are many to choose from, but this has to be my go-to for recommending because of the view of sunsets in the valley.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I would love to thank my life partner, Ashley. She is a dedicated nurse who has incredible skills that I see changing the world. as well as her unwavering dedication to supporting and fostering a home of creativity and love and understanding.

I want to recognize the La Foret Conference and Retreat Center. They’ve been a big part of my life, most of my childhood development happened there at camp. Later, I had the honor of becoming a counselor for seven years straight. It’s been incredible to witness so many amazing moments of growth, both in myself and in others.

I also want to shout out to my friend Somatra Souen, He’s a loyal friend and a fellow creative. I deeply admire his dedication and honesty; it brings me peace knowing I’m friends with someone so incredibly talented. He’s a 3D designer, artist and a freelance creative, working across many mediums. A recent college grad, he continues to inspire me every day.

Instagram: https://ojk.photo

Facebook: Orion J Kueffner Photography

Youtube: @orionj.k.phototography

Image Credits
Portrait- Will Haack
Orion J. K. Photography L.L.C. Photos – OJK.Photo