Bleisure – Take your Camera to Marfa, Texas

The concept of “bleisure” – blending business and leisure travel – has gained significant traction in recent years. For photographers, it presents a unique opportunity to not only fulfill professional obligations but also to have fun by going to new environments and capture exciting imagery. In a few of my recent trips to meet clients in the enigmatic desert town of Marfa, TX, I experienced firsthand the potential of this approach.

Marfa, a remote outpost in the high desert of Far West Texas, is a destination that simultaneously challenges and captivates. The landscape surrounding it is characterized by flat grasslands dotted with hardy cacti, all under the watchful gaze of distant, rugged mountains. Over the past few years, business trips and vacations have brought me to this unique corner of the Trans-Pecos, and as a photographer, I’ve eagerly looked for ways to weave in moments of creative exploration.

Bleisure Guide for Marfa, Texas and Beyond

Here’s a guide, inspired by my “bleisure” experience in Marfa, for photographers looking to balance business with the pursuit of their craft while on the road:

1. Embrace the “Bleisure” Ethos:

It all boils down to being intentional. Instead of viewing your business trip solely through a professional lens, consider how you can extend your stay or carve out specific time for personal exploration and photography. In Marfa, this meant allocating an afternoon to drive out to the iconic Prada Marfa installation, a surreal art piece standing alone in the vast landscape. To get to Prada Marfa, you drive about 37 miles west on US Route 90 past the small town of Valentine, Texas.

2. Research and Choose Destinations with Photographic Potential:

There are opportunities for unique photos if you plan well. Even if business calls you to an unexpected spot, don’t write it off. Places you wouldn’t expect can offer awesome photographic rewards. Marfa is known for its art scene and those mysterious “Marfa Lights.” Below you will see pictures of Ballroom Marfa, The Chamberlain Building, and The Chinati Foundation. Of course be aware that photography is not allowed in some of these art installations. 

3. Plan Your Itinerary Strategically (But Stay Flexible):

Prioritize your business commitments, but look for pockets of time before or after meetings. Even during lunch breaks go explore with your camera. In Marfa, a quick visit to the quirky roadside attraction “El Cosmico” before a client dinner provided a burst of vibrant, Texan imagery. Check out local landmarks like the beautifully restored Thunderbird Hotel or the historic Hotel Saint George for architectural shots. Even a brief stop at Marfa Public Radio, with its local flavor, can yield interesting documentary-style photographs. Be prepared to deviate from the plan if an unexpected photographic opportunity arises.

4. Utilize Local Resources:

When you’re mixing business with fun, you gotta make the most of what’s around you. Sites like Visit Marfa are helpful for finding cool art and local shops that make for unique photo ops. And seriously, don’t be shy—chat up the locals! They’re usually the best source for hidden gems and awesome perspectives you won’t get from a guidebook. Those chats can lead to genuinely authentic experiences and help you snap pics that truly capture the vibe of the place. Tapping into these resources will totally level up your trip, leaving you with way more than just work checked off your list.

5. Master Your Craft On the Go:

This is your chance to try new photographic techniques! Use your downtime to review your existing photography skills and try experimenting with new techniques. The stark desert light of Marfa offers a fantastic opportunity to play with shadows and high contrast. Whether it’s practicing composition or experimenting with different lenses, every trip is a chance to hone your skills.

6. Document Your Journey Beyond the Business:

Don’t just focus on the work aspects of your trip. Capture the essence of your destination. In Marfa, this meant documenting the vast, empty landscapes, the intriguing art installations, and the unique character of the town itself. These images become a personal record of your experience and can even inform your professional work in unexpected ways

7. Find Balance and Recharge:

Bleisure only works if you don’t burn out. Ensure you schedule downtime for relaxation. Enjoy a quiet evening at your hotel, savor a local meal, or simply take a moment to disconnect and process your experiences. In Marfa, the tranquil desert evenings offered a welcome break after a day of meetings and photography.

Bleisure: Remember it’s about balance

By intentionally integrating your passion for photography into your business travels, you can transform routine trips into enriching and inspiring experiences. Marfa, Texas, with its stark beauty and artistic spirit, proved to be an unexpectedly rewarding destination for a “bleisure” adventure, offering a unique backdrop for both professional engagements and personal photographic exploration.

// Equipment used: Sony a7IV, Sony A7III, Sony RX100 VII, Sony F1.4 20mm, Sony F1.4 35mm, Sony F4 24-105mm

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Written by Ben Raigoza, at Lightning Bilt.