A local photographer and friend Steve Cowell is a passionate beard grower and photographer in Costa Mesa, CA. He is an inspiration to many men aspiring to do what they love. We don't know what it is with men and beards but some how they all of a sudden get the courage to do things they've never done before. Read more to hear Steve's story and great humor. One of the only ginger beards we know...
Where are you located?
Costa Mesa, CA (aka “Costamazing”) !
What is it that you do?
I take pictures of people and stuff !
When did you realize that this is what you wanted to pursue?
Way too late in the game…had my life sucked out of me by a sales career for 8 years before finally discovering the freedom of working for myself in a creative field. I don’t care if I can only afford to eat Top Ramen and have to mooch off of all my friends/family, I’m never going back to the corporate world.
Describe a few steps you took to make this happen.
Got laid off from a few jobs, got sick of the grind, took a risk and paid a buddy of mine to give me new branding and build me a new website and just started shooting stuff that I love!
What are some of your accomplishments as a beard grower?
Successfully scaring some small children, receiving greater respect from bartenders and
immediate service, leaving long ginger strands as gifts on my wife’s keyboard
and bathroom counter top !
What do you believe makes a quality beard?
When it looks completely under control, regardless of the length. Wash, oil, brush, repeat. Oh, and plenty of bourbon to stimulate growth.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Ex-presidents from way back in the day! I believe our streak of horrible presidents in this country are due in part to none of them sporting a healthy, manly beard. Some of the greatest leaders of our past had beards…bring it back!! !
What advice do you have for aspiring beard growers?
Be patient, know what beard type best suits the look you are trying to accomplish, stay committed. !
Did you ever think you would be where you are today?
No, but I am so so grateful for it…both my career and my beard. I never thought I would be able to make a living from a job that I truly, deeply love, nor did I ever think I would
be able to grow such a rad beard (the ability to grow facial hair does not really
run in my family) !
Where can readers find out more about you?
-Website/Blog: www.stevecowellphoto.com
-Facebook: stevecowell-photo
-Instagram: @stevecowell_photo
-Twitter: @stevecowell_
