Cameron Niven, From Surf Shots to Supercars: How Passion Shaped a Creative Career

Tell us about your journey. How did you get started? 

I actually fell into photography by accident. A friend asked me to take some photos of them surfing, and that was the moment I realized I had an eye for it. From there, things started to unfold naturally. I’ve always had a passion for the automotive world, so I began bringing my camera to local car shows and events. That not only helped me develop my skills, but also allowed me to connect with the community, build friendships, and grow as a creative. Over time, my interest expanded into cinematic video. Once I started experimenting in that space, I was hooked. I could see my style evolving and my storytelling becoming stronger. That growth has allowed me to become really versatile, whether I’m capturing weddings, real estate, vehicle deliveries, or action sports, I’m able to adapt and bring a unique perspective to each project

What's it like working with celebrities and influencers? 

Working with celebrities and influencers is both exciting and creatively rewarding. These are individuals who often have a strong vision and brand, which challenges me to bring my best work to the table every time. There's a level of trust and collaboration that has to exist, and when it's there, the creative process becomes truly dynamic. At the same time, it's important to stay grounded and professional. Time is limited, expectations are high, and attention to detail is everything. I’ve learned how to adapt quickly, communicate clearly, and create a comfortable environment so we can capture authentic, standout content. Ultimately, it’s an incredible feeling to know that the images and videos we create together can shape public perception and inspire audiences. That kind of impact is what drives me to keep growing as an artist.

What's been the highlight of your career so far? 

Throughout my journey, I’ve always strived to work with the top brands in the world, brands that set the standard for excellence. One of the biggest highlights of my career was working with Bugatti on the Bolide project, where I had the opportunity to document the delivery of the very first customer Bugatti Bolide in North America. With a small, focused team of just three people, I captured both photo and video content, from the car being prepped to its track-side delivery, all the way through its first moments on the track. Seeing that work shared across Bugatti’s global digital channels was surreal and incredibly rewarding. That experience reminded me why I do what I do. Projects like that motivate me to keep pushing creative boundaries and continue evolving my craft.

How do you manage the hustle and stay grounded? 

The hustle is real in this industry. There’s always something going on, another project to take on, or a deadline to meet. For me, staying grounded starts with remembering why I do this. I love storytelling, I love connecting with people, and I love capturing moments that matter. That keeps me centered when things get hectic. I’ve also learned the importance of creating balance. Whether it's carving out time for family, stepping away to recharge creatively, or just having a morning routine that sets the tone for the day, it all adds up. Surrounding myself with a solid support system helps, too. I stay connected with people who remind me to slow down, celebrate the wins, and keep perspective. At the end of the day, I remind myself that the work is important, but so is showing up fully, for myself and for others.

What's the best part of working behind the scenes and using your talent to bring visions to life? 

The best part is seeing someone’s idea, something that started as a spark, come to life in a way that’s even bigger than they imagined. There’s something powerful about being behind the scenes, helping shape the mood, the message, and the overall experience without always being front and center. I love the process of translating emotion into visuals. Whether it’s a brand shoot, a track experience video, or a personal project, my role is to amplify someone’s vision and make it real. That trust people place in me, to bring their story to life, is something I never take for granted. It’s also rewarding to watch people light up when they see the final product, and ultimately, that’s what drives me every time.

https://www.cameronniven.com

Instagram: @niven.media