24. From Zero Experience to AHA Audio Visual Specialist with Kelsey Vejraska

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to create content inside a breed association (or how to break into that world), this episode is for you. Kelsey Vejraska shares how she went from “I know nothing about a camera” to Audio Visual Specialist at the American Hereford Association, plus practical advice on storytelling, gear, inspiration, and fast turnaround event coverage. In this episode, you’ll learn… What breed association “content” work actually includes (and why the title rarely says “content creator”) How Kelsey learned video quickly: repetition, mentoring, and “YouTube University” Where to find inspiration outside the ag space without copying How storytelling gets stronger when you research well and ask better questions What gear is truly essential for travel-heavy livestock + event coverage How to balance video vs photo vs graphics so you’re not “making noise to make noise” The mindset shift Kelsey wishes she had earlier: confidence, tunnel vision, and less comparison Kelsey Vejraska — Audio Visual Specialist at the American Hereford Association, creating photo/video/design content for events, digital marketing, and on-farm features across the industry. Links mentioned: American Hereford Association (socials mentioned in episode) Sunny Okanagan Angus: @SunnyOKAngus (Kelsey noted this is the tag) Resources mentioned (tools, gear, books) Book Steal Like an Artist (Austin Kleon) Learning / inspiration YouTube (editing + skill-building) TikTok (especially for graphic design tips) Adobe MAX (conference she wants to attend) Gear (Kelsey’s essentials) Sony cameras: A7R series + A7S III (film-focused) Lenses: 70–200mm f/2.8, 24–70mm f/2.8, 85mm f/1.8 Audio: Rode shotgun mic (on-camera), Sony wired mics, DJI wireless mics (not her favorite) Drone (regularly used for variety/angles) Tripods: lightweight Manfrotto Cases: moving from Pelican to Condition One case (likes the wheels/handle/foam) Editing: Adobe Premiere (referenced) If this episode made you think “I want that job” or “I need to get better fast,” hit follow/subscribe on Club Cultivate so you don’t miss the next creator conversation.