Daily Inspiration: Meet Cole Pates

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Cole Pates.

Hi Cole, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Following an unfortunate injury that prevented me from pursuing my ambition of becoming a professional skier, a new chapter in my life unfolded.

Despite this setback, my passion for the industry remained unwavering. During this time of reflection and adaptation, I ventured into the realm of photography, seeking a different yet intertwined path within the world of sports. As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into years, my skill behind the camera grew, leading me to establish strong relationships with significant clients in the action sports domain.

However, as the unforeseen impact of COVID-19 swept across the globe, the industry experienced a noticeable slowdown, disrupting the flow of projects and opportunities. Amidst this period of uncertainty and transition, I found myself at a crossroads, compelled to seek a more stable source of livelihood while still nurturing my creative pursuits.

It was within this juncture that my career trajectory took a pivotal turn, guiding me toward a full-time role as the Video Director at The North Face, a renowned entity in the outdoor and adventure industry. This newfound position not only provided a sense of security but also presented a platform for me to channel my artistic vision and expertise into a structured and rewarding profession while allowing me to continue my freelance endeavors and nurture my personal growth in tandem.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life, with all its intricacies, has been a journey filled with peaks and valleys, much like the ebbs and flows of a river. There have been moments of inertia, where creativity seemed elusive, and the pace appeared sluggish. It is during these times that the true essence of growth emerges—a continuous evolution fueled by self-reflection, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of personal betterment.

In the tapestry of existence, we are often guided by the rhythms of societal norms and obligations. However, amidst this structured symphony, it becomes paramount to prioritize one’s physical and mental well-being.

This entails occasional retreats to unwind and rejuvenate and dedicating ample time for introspection and contemplation—a process essential for making sense of our experiences and navigating the complexities of life with clarity and purpose.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I wish I could narrow down a specific field of practice to call my own, but in today’s world, one must be a jack of all trades.

I specialize as a director, director of photography (DP), and follow-cam operator. I’ve had the fortune to work across various commercial industries, including fashion, action sports, food, campaign work, and rebranding. My portfolio includes collaborations with prominent companies like Meta, Chipotle, Subway, Red Bull, The North Face, and many others.

While it’s exciting to list these impressive brands, it’s crucial to acknowledge the collaborative effort behind these large-scale commercial projects. Success in this field requires surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals with the same passion and drive. Ultimately, the specific type of commercial matters less than the creativity involved and the ability to truly move the audience.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t believe that luck plays a significant role in life. Instead, I think success comes from learning from mistakes early on and being in the right place at the right time.

Hard work is the true differentiator between those who succeed and those who don’t, and understanding that failure isn’t inherently negative is crucial. We all need to learn independently; if some people seem to avoid hardships initially, they will eventually face situations where they must adapt and overcome challenges.

Ultimately, the ability to persevere and grow from these experiences defines one’s success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.colepates.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colepates/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/colepatess
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colepates/

Image Credits
Will Beihiffer