PHOTOS | Justin Rypma

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JUSTIN RYPMA

CINEMATOGRAPHER

JUSTIN RYPMA

CINEMATOGRAPHER

JUSTIN RYPMA

CINEMATOGRAPHER

Extremely grateful for a 4th back to back week of work, but before things go quiet - I’m doubling down on my weak points. ⏬

Delivering results for my existing network has been rocket fuel for the start of my freelance journey - I haven’t even had time to publish my website!

But is it safe to assume these opportunities will continue? Absolutely not ❌

Week 6 recap:

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
• High stress ⬇️(not enough proper rest)
• Improved stubbornness ⬆️ pro or con?

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
• 1 day consulting ⬆️
• 3 days video editing ⬆️
• 3 pitches delivered ⬆️

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗜’𝗺 𝗱𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 :
I won’t make the mistake on relying too much on referrals, neglect internal systems, and ride a rollercoaster of hot and cold periods as a result.

Instead, I’m focused on nailing my customer journey
- Amplifying feedback that defines my ‘Why’
- Simplifying my 12 services into 3 distinct offerings.
- Make the start of new relationships a breeze.

With luck, you may see a new website next week. Then the crushing cold reality of outbound sales will begin 🤣

Stay tuned!

Extremely grateful for a 4th back to back week of work, but before things go quiet - I’m doubling down on my weak points. ⏬

Delivering results for my existing network has been rocket fuel for the start of my freelance journey - I haven’t even had time to publish my website!

But is it safe to assume these opportunities will continue? Absolutely not ❌

Week 6 recap:

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
• High stress ⬇️(not enough proper rest)
• Improved stubbornness ⬆️ pro or con?

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
• 1 day consulting ⬆️
• 3 days video editing ⬆️
• 3 pitches delivered ⬆️

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗜’𝗺 𝗱𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 :
I won’t make the mistake on relying too much on referrals, neglect internal systems, and ride a rollercoaster of hot and cold periods as a result.

Instead, I’m focused on nailing my customer journey
- Amplifying feedback that defines my ‘Why’
- Simplifying my 12 services into 3 distinct offerings.
- Make the start of new relationships a breeze.

With luck, you may see a new website next week. Then the crushing cold reality of outbound sales will begin 🤣

Stay tuned!

Sickness, cancelled jobs, and conflicting timelines. This week reminded me that even the best laid plans cannot always control for the unexpected.

As someone who highly values planning and organisation, stress compounds when facing problems that can’t be solved. I look for every angle to get around it, but sometimes there’s nothing to be done.

Admitting that is hard for me, especially when it comes to physical health.

As a man there’s always the voice to ‘suck it up’ and ‘push through’. But I’ve tried this before, and it’s not pretty.

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
• 2x recovery days ⬆️

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
• 4 days of lost work ⬇️
• 2 meetings ⬆️
• 2 days video editing ⬆️
• 1 day filming ⬆️

𝗕𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱:
I can’t force myself to feel healthier or change the weather, but I can give myself the space to say ‘it’s all good’ sometimes.

Back to it next week 💪

Sickness, cancelled jobs, and conflicting timelines. This week reminded me that even the best laid plans cannot always control for the unexpected.

As someone who highly values planning and organisation, stress compounds when facing problems that can’t be solved. I look for every angle to get around it, but sometimes there’s nothing to be done.

Admitting that is hard for me, especially when it comes to physical health.

As a man there’s always the voice to ‘suck it up’ and ‘push through’. But I’ve tried this before, and it’s not pretty.

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
• 2x recovery days ⬆️

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
• 4 days of lost work ⬇️
• 2 meetings ⬆️
• 2 days video editing ⬆️
• 1 day filming ⬆️

𝗕𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱:
I can’t force myself to feel healthier or change the weather, but I can give myself the space to say ‘it’s all good’ sometimes.

Back to it next week 💪

I started my freelance business with a modest goal, to cover my base costs. I can report that I’ve successfully 2X that goal this first month 👊

𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻
• Camera assist 🎬: 4 days
• Video editing 🧑‍💻: 6 days
• Location sound recording 🎤: 1 day

Next month I’ve locked in some 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀
• Cinematographer 🎥
• Gaffer 💡
• Marketing systems consultant ⚙️
• Creative content consultant 📈

This month has been a whirlwind of learnings, emotions, and uncertainty, but things are headed in the right direction.

If we still haven’t worked together on a creative project, there’s never been a better time to grab a coffee ☕

I started my freelance business with a modest goal, to cover my base costs. I can report that I’ve successfully 2X that goal this first month 👊

𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻
• Camera assist 🎬: 4 days
• Video editing 🧑‍💻: 6 days
• Location sound recording 🎤: 1 day

Next month I’ve locked in some 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀
• Cinematographer 🎥
• Gaffer 💡
• Marketing systems consultant ⚙️
• Creative content consultant 📈

This month has been a whirlwind of learnings, emotions, and uncertainty, but things are headed in the right direction.

If we still haven’t worked together on a creative project, there’s never been a better time to grab a coffee ☕

“Justin does this” is a phrase I’ve worked hard to avoid. The truth is, Justin does many things—and that’s the way he likes it.

I’ve spent years hearing “you need to specialize” and “find your niche.” But after weeks of freelancing, I’m convinced: creative flexibility is the most valuable asset I’ve developed.

This week reinforced how being a multi-faceted creative has expanded my opportunities instead of limiting them.

It saw me cover geothermal electricity generation, a century+ year old Canterbury interior design business, and help share Ōtautahi Christchurch’s story to the world.

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
• Adventure ⬆️ (The Lake Taupo shoot took me to stunning new locations)
• Perspective ⬆️ (Different roles = fresh approaches to problems)
• Relationship diversity ⬆️ (Meeting people across industries I’d never encounter otherwise)

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
• 0 meetings (sometimes the quiet weeks are the busiest)
• 8 opportunities
• 3 jobs

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: This fight against being typecast has served me better than I expected. Yes, I’m a cinematographer at heart, but my experience across directing, editing, sound design, and digital marketing means I’m solving different creative puzzles every day.

This isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving through variety. Different people, locations, businesses, and challenges keep my creative engine running hot.

Are you specializing or diversifying your skillset? Have you found one approach works better in your creative field? 🎬🎙️💻

“Justin does this” is a phrase I’ve worked hard to avoid. The truth is, Justin does many things—and that’s the way he likes it.

I’ve spent years hearing “you need to specialize” and “find your niche.” But after weeks of freelancing, I’m convinced: creative flexibility is the most valuable asset I’ve developed.

This week reinforced how being a multi-faceted creative has expanded my opportunities instead of limiting them.

It saw me cover geothermal electricity generation, a century+ year old Canterbury interior design business, and help share Ōtautahi Christchurch’s story to the world.

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
• Adventure ⬆️ (The Lake Taupo shoot took me to stunning new locations)
• Perspective ⬆️ (Different roles = fresh approaches to problems)
• Relationship diversity ⬆️ (Meeting people across industries I’d never encounter otherwise)

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
• 0 meetings (sometimes the quiet weeks are the busiest)
• 8 opportunities
• 3 jobs

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: This fight against being typecast has served me better than I expected. Yes, I’m a cinematographer at heart, but my experience across directing, editing, sound design, and digital marketing means I’m solving different creative puzzles every day.

This isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving through variety. Different people, locations, businesses, and challenges keep my creative engine running hot.

Are you specializing or diversifying your skillset? Have you found one approach works better in your creative field? 🎬🎙️💻

‘Nature’s Dancer’ 💃

Capturing the beautify of mother nature’s textures is still one of my favourite creative pastimes. Little before / after shot from this week in Taupo next to a geothermal river runoff.

‘Do you see the girl in it? Trust me.. she’s there’

#blackandwhite #interpretation #texture

‘Nature’s Dancer’ 💃

Capturing the beautify of mother nature’s textures is still one of my favourite creative pastimes. Little before / after shot from this week in Taupo next to a geothermal river runoff.

‘Do you see the girl in it? Trust me.. she’s there’

#blackandwhite #interpretation #texture

Smashing out 4 interviews this morning 💪 with @s.waterhouse from @resonate_nz! 🎥

Remote director feed to the homeland 🇺🇸 📡

Smashing out 4 interviews this morning 💪 with @s.waterhouse from @resonate_nz! 🎥

Remote director feed to the homeland 🇺🇸 📡

Week 2 freelancing recap: Getting a coffee with someone can change your entire life.

It’s not just about finding work. Every time I sit down with someone in person or on a call, it’s a free lottery ticket to excitement, learning, laughs, and the unexpected. The outcomes are unknown, and the possibilities limitless.

What did the universe offer up this week?

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
• Anxiety ⬇️ (It’s caught up with me this week with more on the calendar)
• Confidence ⬆️(Feeling more confident again in how I speak to others)
• Generosity ⬆️ (Still giving more then before freelancing)

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
• 12 meetings
• 8 opportunities
• 6 paid jobs booked (DOP, 1st AC, Gaffer, and Editor roles) 🚀
• 1 linkedin post
• 12 new pieces of gear I’ve found (but trying to avoid buying)

My approach to outreach:
I’ve made a new rule - I ask anyone who connects with me on LinkedIn to a real or virtual coffee. It forces me outside of my bubble of experience, comfort, and the potential for an X factor that could change everything.

Has this worked? Yes and No 😂. Other people’s time is highly constrained and valuable, not everyone finds it relevant to meet. But what’s the harm in asking?

The most interesting opportunity I’ve ever had came out of a meeting this week. And it wouldn’t have happened if I didn’t give the universe the chance to open the door.

I can’t promise it will change your life, but if you want to have a coffee sometime - hey you never know! 🤷

#CoffeesChangeLives

Week 2 freelancing recap: Getting a coffee with someone can change your entire life.

It’s not just about finding work. Every time I sit down with someone in person or on a call, it’s a free lottery ticket to excitement, learning, laughs, and the unexpected. The outcomes are unknown, and the possibilities limitless.

What did the universe offer up this week?

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
• Anxiety ⬇️ (It’s caught up with me this week with more on the calendar)
• Confidence ⬆️(Feeling more confident again in how I speak to others)
• Generosity ⬆️ (Still giving more then before freelancing)

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
• 12 meetings
• 8 opportunities
• 6 paid jobs booked (DOP, 1st AC, Gaffer, and Editor roles) 🚀
• 1 linkedin post
• 12 new pieces of gear I’ve found (but trying to avoid buying)

My approach to outreach:
I’ve made a new rule - I ask anyone who connects with me on LinkedIn to a real or virtual coffee. It forces me outside of my bubble of experience, comfort, and the potential for an X factor that could change everything.

Has this worked? Yes and No 😂. Other people’s time is highly constrained and valuable, not everyone finds it relevant to meet. But what’s the harm in asking?

The most interesting opportunity I’ve ever had came out of a meeting this week. And it wouldn’t have happened if I didn’t give the universe the chance to open the door.

I can’t promise it will change your life, but if you want to have a coffee sometime - hey you never know! 🤷

#CoffeesChangeLives

Week 1 freelancing recap: Two paid jobs + 300% increase in walks in the park.

My biggest take away?

Time blocking ⏱️ has noticeably improved my mental health and productivity even in the first 7 days. I averaged 4.5 hours a day of work this first week ( half that of my last 9-5 job).

What did I achieve?

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
  • Generosity ⬆️ (I gave more time and gifts to others)
  • Self awareness ⬆️ (My mental state and needs were clearer to pinpoint)
  • Memory ⬆️(Recalling small details from meetings has been easier)
  • Satisfaction ⬆️ (Enjoying the process of work and leisure has increased)

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
  • 8 meetings
  • 5 opportunities
  • 2 paid jobs (1st assistant camera + gaffer)
  • 1 branded pitch deck
  • 1 linkedin post
  • Website at 70% completion

𝗠𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀:
I’ve started working in blocks of 45 minutes. Asking myself after each - “Am I in a flow state?” If not, switch tasks for an additional 45 min or just walk away 🛑. No more than 1:30 looking at a screen without a break.

This hyperfocus on work time has really helped me give 110% to work when I have the energy and focus on leisure and rest when I’m not. This is in part inspired by Dan Koe’s recent blog : The 80-Hour Myth (Why We’re Addicted To Being Busy)

So far it’s been promising results. But are they sustainable?

To my friends who own your business, how do you manage your time? Have you tried this before? Was it successful long term?

I would love to hear your thoughts.

Week 1 freelancing recap: Two paid jobs + 300% increase in walks in the park.

My biggest take away?

Time blocking ⏱️ has noticeably improved my mental health and productivity even in the first 7 days. I averaged 4.5 hours a day of work this first week ( half that of my last 9-5 job).

What did I achieve?

𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀
  • Generosity ⬆️ (I gave more time and gifts to others)
  • Self awareness ⬆️ (My mental state and needs were clearer to pinpoint)
  • Memory ⬆️(Recalling small details from meetings has been easier)
  • Satisfaction ⬆️ (Enjoying the process of work and leisure has increased)

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:
  • 8 meetings
  • 5 opportunities
  • 2 paid jobs (1st assistant camera + gaffer)
  • 1 branded pitch deck
  • 1 linkedin post
  • Website at 70% completion

𝗠𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀:
I’ve started working in blocks of 45 minutes. Asking myself after each - “Am I in a flow state?” If not, switch tasks for an additional 45 min or just walk away 🛑. No more than 1:30 looking at a screen without a break.

This hyperfocus on work time has really helped me give 110% to work when I have the energy and focus on leisure and rest when I’m not. This is in part inspired by Dan Koe’s recent blog : The 80-Hour Myth (Why We’re Addicted To Being Busy)

So far it’s been promising results. But are they sustainable?

To my friends who own your business, how do you manage your time? Have you tried this before? Was it successful long term?

I would love to hear your thoughts.

#JustinIsMint (Except on camera)🤣. It was still a fun experience recording my video cover letter for @mintdesign.nz

I’ve officially submitted my application for their Head of Content Marketing role!

Thanks to everyone for your comments, feedback, and encouragement this week. Whatever happens, it’s been a blast.

Filmed at @ninetwentyonestudios

#JustinIsMint (Except on camera)🤣. It was still a fun experience recording my video cover letter for @mintdesign.nz

I’ve officially submitted my application for their Head of Content Marketing role!

Thanks to everyone for your comments, feedback, and encouragement this week. Whatever happens, it’s been a blast.

Filmed at @ninetwentyonestudios

Thanks to everyone who shared their #JustinIsMint messages! I’ve given them the placement they deserve. 🙌

Sadly this campaign did not have the budget to hire a billboard this week, but that doesn’t have to stop @mintdesign.nz from seeing them in their rightful place.

The last details are being finalised and I’ll be sending in my application tomorrow for Mint’s Head of Content Marketing role.

Stay tuned for the official submission! 👀

Thanks to everyone who shared their #JustinIsMint messages! I’ve given them the placement they deserve. 🙌

Sadly this campaign did not have the budget to hire a billboard this week, but that doesn’t have to stop @mintdesign.nz from seeing them in their rightful place.

The last details are being finalised and I’ll be sending in my application tomorrow for Mint’s Head of Content Marketing role.

Stay tuned for the official submission! 👀

I’m applying to @mintdesign.nz ‘s Head of Content Marketing role—and I need your help…

My maternity cover role at @resonate_nz is coming to an end; it’s been a blast working with Simon and Arthur. Now, it’s time for me to try something a little different to land my next role.

Today, I’m launching a personal campaign to get myself on Mint’s radar.🚀

How can you help? If you’ve enjoyed working with me in the past, comment below and let them know why #JustinIsMint

(For my us colleagues:‘Mint’ is used in NZ to describe something that is in top or perfect condition)✨

Stay tuned; there’s some fun content coming your way! I’ll be sharing my efforts all week to win the hearts and minds of the Mint team.

I’m applying to @mintdesign.nz ‘s Head of Content Marketing role—and I need your help…

My maternity cover role at @resonate_nz is coming to an end; it’s been a blast working with Simon and Arthur. Now, it’s time for me to try something a little different to land my next role.

Today, I’m launching a personal campaign to get myself on Mint’s radar.🚀

How can you help? If you’ve enjoyed working with me in the past, comment below and let them know why #JustinIsMint

(For my us colleagues:‘Mint’ is used in NZ to describe something that is in top or perfect condition)✨

Stay tuned; there’s some fun content coming your way! I’ll be sharing my efforts all week to win the hearts and minds of the Mint team.

For those curious if EVs can handle a little cold weather… the #audi #etrongt speaks for itself.

@shpg_icedrive @audi_nz

📸: Ricoh GRiiiX

#ricoh #griiix #newzealand #audi #ev #drifting

For those curious if EVs can handle a little cold weather… the #audi #etrongt speaks for itself.

@shpg_icedrive @audi_nz

📸: Ricoh GRiiiX

#ricoh #griiix #newzealand #audi #ev #drifting

My first proper product photography session experimenting with real world image capture mixed with AI environments.

Tools:
@ricoh_gr_official #griiix
#midjourney
@adobe #photoshop
@aputure.lighting #300x #60x #mc
#projectionlighting

Beautiful product from @isleofharrisdistillers , you guys keen to collaborate? 😉

If you have any questions about my process or want to suggest a new product you’d like to see a breakdown for let me know!

My first proper product photography session experimenting with real world image capture mixed with AI environments.

Tools:
@ricoh_gr_official #griiix
#midjourney
@adobe #photoshop
@aputure.lighting #300x #60x #mc
#projectionlighting

Beautiful product from @isleofharrisdistillers , you guys keen to collaborate? 😉

If you have any questions about my process or want to suggest a new product you’d like to see a breakdown for let me know!

Can’t believe we got to experience this in the back yard! A stunning night to see the #auroraaustralis towering across the sky in its glory.

#grⅲx #ricoh #grsnaps

Can’t believe we got to experience this in the back yard! A stunning night to see the #auroraaustralis towering across the sky in its glory.

#grⅲx #ricoh #grsnaps

One way door 🚪

#doubleexposure #bodegabay #hallway #lanterns #treeoflight #sunset #passing #ricoh #grⅲx #grsnaps

One way door 🚪

#doubleexposure #bodegabay #hallway #lanterns #treeoflight #sunset #passing #ricoh #grⅲx #grsnaps

Cafe in the sky ☕️☁️
#lookup #athens #wishihadmycamera

Cafe in the sky ☕️☁️
#lookup #athens #wishihadmycamera

#ricoh #grsnaps #grⅲx #window

#ricoh #grsnaps #grⅲx #window

It was another time, another world 🌎

#necropolis #ancient #greece🇬🇷 #grsnaps #grⅲx #ricoh

It was another time, another world 🌎

#necropolis #ancient #greece🇬🇷 #grsnaps #grⅲx #ricoh

Grab life by the handles 🤜

#grⅲx #grsnaps #ricoh #doorway

Grab life by the handles 🤜

#grⅲx #grsnaps #ricoh #doorway

Climbing into dreams ⬆️

#stairway #dreams #red #blue #neon #grsnaps #ricoh #grⅲx #windowtint

Climbing into dreams ⬆️

#stairway #dreams #red #blue #neon #grsnaps #ricoh #grⅲx #windowtint

Tiles on the march 🛖

#texture #tiles #grsnaps #ricoh #griiix

Tiles on the march 🛖

#texture #tiles #grsnaps #ricoh #griiix

Aging tides 🔵

#aging #turquoise #gold #cracking #old #wall #grsnaps #ricoh #griiix #sighisoara

Aging tides 🔵

#aging #turquoise #gold #cracking #old #wall #grsnaps #ricoh #griiix #sighisoara

Sunset view 🌅

#sunset #window #street #grsnaps #ricoh #griiix

Sunset view 🌅

#sunset #window #street #grsnaps #ricoh #griiix

Weathered

#texture #cracks #door #chippedpaint #oldpaint #ricoh #griiix #grsnaps

Weathered

#texture #cracks #door #chippedpaint #oldpaint #ricoh #griiix #grsnaps

Decisions 🔁

#rightorleft #paths #signs #exit #decisions #ricoh #grⅲx #grsnaps

Decisions 🔁

#rightorleft #paths #signs #exit #decisions #ricoh #grⅲx #grsnaps

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