We had the good fortune of connecting with Arnie Watkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arnie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Ever since I was younger I had known that I wanted to create my own company. I started Pacific Interlude because I have been working as a freelance photographer for the past five years. After living in LA for almost 4 years I wanted to offer my clients more than just photography. I wanted to help them take their brand to the next level , whether it be through digital strategy, influencer marketing, full campaign production, or PR.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My photography represents simplicity and beauty. I try to keep my photography very clean with minimal editing. I get a lot of inspiration from the past, nature, animals, natural moments where freedom and beauty meet. It wasn’t easy at all to get to the point where i am today. But i always believe in myself, that i have taste and authentic vision. I started taking photos when i was 15 y.o. When i moved to Los Angeles at 19 y.o. i reached out to a lot of people and brands and its how i got my first clients in California. Since then i’ve been working on perfecting my craft and building my company, Pacific Interlude.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I know some low key beautiful beaches in Malibu and Laguna.I love to take people who visit California to some non typical tourists spots. I’m a fan of Italian cuisine , I would take them to Nerano in Beverly Hills. They have the best truffle pizza. I would also take them to my favorite overlooks in Topanga and Hollywood hills.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
id like to thank my assistant Bianca Parato. she’s believed in my vision ever since i came to her to ask her to work with me and has helped me build Pacific Interlude from the ground up.

Website: www.pacificinterlude.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/watarnie

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.