Instagram Influencer Spotlight On: Mason Hook @masonhook

1) Tell us a little about yourself. What are you doing now and where do you come from?

Hey! My name is Mason Hook and I’m a 17 year old freelance photographer based out of Oklahoma. Currently I’m building up my brand, and I’m doing about 2-3 shoots a week. I’m going to be spending the spring of 2017 on the road, going to at least 10 states.

2) What are your topics of interest? What do you post on Instagram the most?

I mainly post landscapes that I take on my camping or backpacking trips. I also love to post an occasional portrait that can boost my brand.

3) How did your Instagram name come about?

I guess my parents came up with it, because it’s just my first and last name. It’s pretty simple, but it’s helped my notoriety in my community.

4) What are some apps you use to edit your photos? Share with us your photo-editing routine!

I shoot RAW and import my photos into lightroom where I do all of my editing. I have VSCO presets downloaded to Lightroom. I mainly use presets that I’ve created to give my photos a recognizable look.

5) Any Instagrammers whom you really like? Which Instagrammer inspires you the most?

Absolutely Forrest Mankins. That guy is insane. Every time I see one of his shots I’m inspired to just go get in my car and drive somewhere. His lifestyle is really appealing to me, and he’s mastered his style.

6) If there’s one thing your fellow Instagrammers just gotta try now, what’s it gonna be?

Go places! People in Oklahoma generally never go anywhere to see something beautiful. One of my favorite things to do is visit national parks, and that’s something I’d like to inspire people to do!

7) What’s your favorite part about being an influencer?

Making personal connections. For example, right before I filled out this form, a girl came up to me and said they recognized me from Instagram and they loved my work. I also love giving advice and helping other photographers out. When I first got into photography I was frustrated that the photographers I loved never responded to me, so one of my goals is to always responded to DMs, no matter how ridiculous the question.

8) What are some of your top tips to brands for running campaigns? How do you maintain authenticity?

I would recommend using people on a local level who have great connections in their community, and to also not push the product too hard. For example, my friend Andrew (IG: Winnterfresh) has done work for Stanley, and the posts promoting the product are pretty simple. It shows him using the products in practical ways. Also, let the creator of the work have some leeway in the method of promotion. If a PR rep comes up with a caption, it’s going to be clear.

9) What would your advice be on the importance of quality and original content?

It’s absolutely essential! Never force a certain style on a creator that you know produces quality content.

10) What do you like best about partnering with brands?

I’ve always been an extremely motivated person who develops a vision and sticks to it. I would love getting an assignment and then working hard to produce quality content.

Topics:

• Nature & Outdoors
• Photography
• Travel

Country:

United States of America