In Conversation with Jonny Hill

Adventure, storytelling, and intentional creativity are at the heart of Jonny Hill’s work. Known for capturing cinematic landscapes, meaningful moments with family, and life on the road, Jonny has built a style that feels both aspirational and deeply personal. 

We caught up with Jonny to talk about creative growth, the gear that changed the way he works, and why he believes pre-owned cameras can open the door for the next generation of photographers.

Tell us about yourself! How did your journey into photography and storytelling begin? Was there a specific moment that sparked it?

My dad played a key role in my love for photography. He always had a camera with him on every family holiday and every hike, just to document our adventures together. That eventually led me to take a “pilot” photography class in high school, which continued to fuel my passion for creating.

In 2016, I immigrated to the Southwest of the United States, which opened up opportunities for travel and exploring incredible landscapes. Then in 2020, I quit my full-time job in healthcare marketing to pursue photography and filmmaking full-time, and I haven’t looked back.

What motivates you to keep exploring and creating, even when travel gets challenging?

The thrill of the adventure keeps me going, along with seeing how my work inspires others to begin their own.

What’s a project or place that pushed you creatively in a way you didn’t expect?

A recent partnership with Grams28 pushed me beyond anything else. It was a full four-day shooting campaign where I was both the subject and the DP. Juggling being in the scenes while also directing was a huge challenge, but it was incredibly fulfilling. It’s been the highlight of my career so far.

Which photo in your portfolio means the most to you — and why?

That’s a tough one. Many of the images that include my family will stay with me forever. Seeing my son get to experience life in the outdoors and documenting those moments means more to me than anything.

What gear do you rely on most in your kit — and why?

The Leica Q3. I’m addicted to cameras and love trying different setups, but the Q3 is irreplaceable. It’s small yet incredibly capable, and it allows me to capture amazing image quality while multitasking with filming.

How has your gear evolved over time as your style and needs have changed?

Once I got my first Leica Q — the Q2 — it completely changed how I create. It allows me to be more intentional because I’m not worrying about switching lenses, and I can stay more present in the moment.

The camera industry is constantly advancing. How do you balance celebrating innovation and new releases with focusing on skill, longevity, and really knowing your tools?

All cameras are incredibly capable these days. I think we’ve reached a point where image quality has plateaued, and now it’s more about the experience of using a camera. It’s very personal, but whatever inspires you to create is what matters most. That mindset has helped me focus more on skill and creativity without getting caught up in every new release.

In your experience, does newer gear actually change or improve the work you can create?

If buying brand new gear inspires you more, then absolutely—it matters. But new gear doesn’t always mean better photos.

You’re constantly on the move. Have your travels influenced your views on pre-owned gear and supporting a circular camera economy?

I’m all about a circular economy. Buying used saves me money, and selling gear puts money back in my pocket while giving someone else the opportunity to enjoy that gear for years to come.

Was there ever a moment where an older or used camera surprised you in terms of performance or reliability?

The Leica Q2 really surprised me. It was already a few years old when I got it, and because it was slower, it actually slowed down my process in a good way. It made me more intentional, creatively, while still delivering image quality that punched way above its class.

How do you think buying pre-owned gear impacts access to photography for emerging creators?

It drastically lowers the barrier to entry for new photographers. I often get asked about gear by aspiring creators, and one of the biggest concerns is always the cost of new cameras. Buying used can save thousands of dollars, and that money can instead go toward travel and experiences, which is key.

What’s next for you? Any goals or projects you’re especially excited about?

Hopefully heading back to Iceland this summer. I feel like I still have unfinished business there. I first traveled there in 2023, just three days after getting my Q2, and it became a pivotal moment in my career.

About Jonny

Filmmaker, photographer, father, and husband.

Jonny Roams is an adventure filmmaker and photographer dedicated to capturing powerful stories that create an emotional connection with his audience. Through his lens, he brings moments to life—whether in the mountains of Wyoming or the vast Desert of Utah. Jonny has had the privilege of working with brands like Sony, Adobe, Sony Cine, and Hasselblad, pushing creative boundaries to craft visually stunning narratives.

Want to see more of Jonny’s work? Check him out on Instagram!