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.