MEET OLYMPUS PHOTOGRAPHER ROBYNNE IKESAKA
WHO ARE YOU?
I’m Robynne Ikesaka, aka Beautifully Wander and I’m a photographer based out of Kelowna, British Columbia. When I was younger ‘travel’ was salmon fishing along the Pacific Coast with my family. As I got older that travel bug continued to grow, and I became more in love with different places, the landscapes, traditions, and history that makes every place unique. My ultimate goal is to travel the globe and create thought-provoking, inspirational photos of our world.
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE YOU WERE A PHOTOGRAPHER?
When I look back I always had a camera in hand on trips. I remember this one time I was leaving for summer camp and while I was waiting at the airport I realized I forgot my memory card at home. I frantically called my mom and asked if she could bring the memory card to the airport and I would meet her. I was just outside when I got caught for sneaking out and almost got kicked out of camp before it started.
Salmon fishing, summer camp, family trips, spring vacation, I loved documenting the experience.
It wasn’t until after college that I picked up the camera again to be creative. Since then I’ve struggled to put it down.
INTRODUCING OLYMPUS
How did you get started with the Olympus system?
I’ve always sought to be a light packer when travelling, when we took a three-week trip to Greece I was determined to only pack a carry-on suitcase and a purse. I also never wanted to leave the camera behind because it was too heavy or bulky.
So when I was doing my research into different camera systems I knew it had to be compact and lightweight for travel.
Olympus was known for its compact and lightweight design. It also had amazing weather-proofing on its body and M.Zuiko lenses. As well, I loved the Olympus community so when it came down to investing I knew we were the right fit.
What’s your go-to Olympus setup?
My go-to Olympus body is the OM-D E-M1 Mark II. The most-often lens attached is the M.Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 PRO. However, I frequently also use the M.Zuiko 40-150mm F2.8 PRO.
How does Olympus help you do your job?
The portability of the Olympus system means that I can take my camera and its lenses everywhere with me. With the compactness of the E-M1 Mark II body and the versatility of the M.Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 PRO I can slip it into my day purse and use it for a variety of purposes while travelling. It also means that when I’m packing I can stick to my carry-on only.
The weather proofing of the body and lenses means that I can photograph in any weather conditions that travel and seasons throw at me.
Lastly, the customization of the camera system allows me to format the camera to exactly how and what is easiest and convenient for my photography.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT BEING A MEMBER OF THE OLYMPUS FAMILY?
My favourite part of being a member of the Olympus family is the education, the support and encouragement from the community.
TIPS FOR OTHER BUDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS
A tip for budding photographers is surround yourself with an encouraging and supportive community, both personally with friends and family and on social media.
TIPS FOR OTHER PRO PHOTOGRAPHERS
A general tip for pro photographers and also applicable for budding photographers is never stop learning, even if it's a subject area that you are already familiar with. There’s always something new you can learn or experiment with.
MORE ABOUT ROBYNNE
Website: Beautifully Wander
Instagram: @beautifullywander