Photoshop guru Aaron Nace was born on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai, which in and of itself is a reason to get to know him. Kauai is one of my favorite places, and in fact I was there just about two months before writing this. Try to imagine what it might be like to grow up on an island of forests, waterfalls, and wild chickens – lots of chickens. This environment sets a stage for childhood adventures and imagination, and the young Aaron set out to build forts deep in the jungle, explore the cliffs and waterfalls, and yes, to chase the wild chickens.

As beautiful as Hawaii is, and it really is wonderful, life would have Aaron and his family pursue a different path. After moving to the mainland, in North Carolina, Aaron grew up to be a creative, studying Industrial Design at North Carolina University, and picking up some Photoshop skills. His plan was to pursue a career in automotive or furniture design, but again… life intervened. Aaron took a six month trip to South America with a point-n-shoot camera and found himself exploring once again. Documenting this trip, and the ability to share those adventures through his photos, was a key moment in Aaron becoming the creative he is today.

Aaron’s career-to-date has had a number of these milestones. From a 365 day self-portrait project that became a hit on Flickr, to deciding to share his techniques on YouTube, Aaron developed a following as he freely shared his skills. This path, from explorer, to student, to explorer and teacher were the foundation for something even bigger. In 2011, Aaron founded PHLEARN to bring free, creative education to anyone around the world.

Aaron Nace is part photographer, part composite genius, part industrial designer, and 100% teacher. I know, those add up to more than 100%. As practical as Aaron’s background is reality isn’t necessarily part of it. His images span from fashion to strange, imaginative, surreal fantasy, all in the same image.

PHLEARN now has over 500 tutorials, and 1.5 million YouTube subscribers. The end of his bio sums up life so well:

Keep it simple

Keep it weird

Enjoy the adventure

And never stop learning

Join the immensely creative photographer, artist, and photoshop wizard Aaron Nace and me as we discuss the keys to a great composite, how to find your own artistic voice, and how he made his wonderful image “Baxter”.

Aaron has offered any Behind the Shot viewers / listeners a 20% discount off a PHLEARN subscription!

Portfolio: aaron-nace.com

Website: phlearn.com

Website: The Best Podcasts for Photographers