Getting Started
Getting started is a healthy mix of daunting and exciting. But that’s where growth comes from. Right? Given most of my work is around creating images, I’ve always wanted a space where I could write and share more, outside the limitations of social media. A blog seems like a step in the right direction. But let me rewind a bit: this is the first post, so introductions are in order. Hello everyone! My name is Rohan Ugale, and I’m a travel photographer based in the United States.
Although I’ve visited and photographed a variety of places around the world, most of my recent work is centered on Japan - a country I keep coming back to for a multitude of reasons. More than anything though, Japan has been a creative muse. From the bustling neon cityscapes to the quiet countryside landscapes, I haven’t enjoyed exploring and photographing a country quite as much as I’ve enjoyed Japan. I hope that my passion, joy, curiosity, and excitement for creating images shines through in my portfolio (which I’ll shortly be refreshing - more below).
Why I’m starting a blog now:
I want to get better at writing, full stop. There’s no better way to get better than consistency.
I want to share my thoughts, advice, and information on photography, editing, gear, and travel. I’ve learned so much from other creatives’ blogs & YouTube that it just feels right to give back. Even if what I’m saying isn’t necessarily new or novel, it might reach people that haven’t heard it before - and to me, that furthers the mission. Plus, I get to add my own unique perspective.
I want a space that I “own” outright. Content that exists on social media is dependent on those platforms surviving and the content swimming in the right “algorithmic lanes” to reach new audiences.
I want to connect with more creatives, photographers, travelers, and just people who have similar interests. Social media has been somewhat helpful for that, but I feel a dedicated blog presents additional opportunities for discovery and connection.
If you’re currently a photographer or creative, you might resonate with some of these points! If so, I suggest you start writing too. Every creative I’ve talked to who has started a blog, diary, substack, or other flexible medium has felt the benefits immensely.
In the next few days, I’ll start sharing some new posts on the following topics:
Traveling to Japan in 2025: Tips, Tricks, Suggestions, Photo Spots
Refreshing & Simplifying my Portfolio in 2025
Camera Gear I Use, and Why
Editing, Lightroom, Photoshop
Until then, feel free to connect with me on Instagram or Threads. Be well, and see you in the next post!
