Imaging and optics company Nikon Inc. is launching its “Nikon Creators Official Partners” program. This initiative connects Nikon with nine emerging visual artists who are reshaping creative disciplines such as photography and videography. 

The Nikon Creators Official Partners span diverse backgrounds and styles. They include:

• fashion photographer Alex Frank (@shotzbyalex) 
• portrait artist Brandon Woelfel (@brandonwoelfel) 
• storytelling wedding photographer Chantel Miller (@chantelmillerstorytelling)
• branding strategist Erin Winters White (@erinondemand)
• special needs advocate and world traveler Houston Vandergriff (@downsandtowns)
• commercial photographer Inari Briana (@inaribriana)
• multidisciplinary creative Jesus “JP” Presinal (@officialjpnyc)
• street photographer Kien Quan (@kienquancreates)
• nature conservationist Savannah Rose (@savannahrosewildlife)

According to Nikon’s President and CEO Naoki Onozato, the program aims to elevate this new generation of creators and provide tools to support their unique visions. 

“The creative landscape and the artists driving it are evolving faster than ever before,” Onozato said in the announcement. “The Nikon Creators Official Partners is a unique program connecting the brand with a new generation of visual storytellers while providing them with the tools they need to tell their stories and push their creative boundaries.”

As part of the Nikon Creators Official Partners program, these creators will have the opportunity to inspire their communities and peers through original content creation. They will also gain access to Nikon’s cutting-edge imaging equipment, including the NIKKOR Z lenses and Z series mirrorless cameras, to bring their visions to life. Nikon plans to provide its partners with resources, education platforms, and creative freedom, fostering an environment where their creativity can thrive.

“It feels like a dream come true to become a Nikon Creators Official Partner,” Brandon Woelfel, known for his ethereal street-style portraits, said in the announcement. “Photography isn’t just my full-time job; it’s become a core part of who I am.”

The Nikon Creators Official Partners will exist alongside Nikon’s Ambassador program of distinguished professional photographers and videographers. However, the company has specified that this new initiative specifically targets creators adept at building online audiences and driving community engagement reflecting today’s visual media landscape.

While providing few specifics, Nikon indicates the partners will teach, collaborate on marketing campaigns, and leverage platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to showcase their creative process using Nikon gear.