Jeff Bartlett

NAME: Jeff Bartlett
BLOG: www.photojbartlett.com

How did you learn about MatadorU?

I learned of MatadorU through the Matador network of blogs. I’ve been a big fan for years and love the way Matador has grown into a major online publication.

Why were you interested in the travel writing or travel photography program?

Honestly, I wasn’t that interested in the photography or writing components. I really wanted to learn more about online media, blogging, and the business side of both writing and photography. Matador’s editors and many MatadorU grads seem to be making the transition from 9-5ers to online travel bloggers, so I figured it was a good place to learn.

What convinced you to enroll in the program?

I had a couple of months free this past year while I was based in Mendoza, Argentina. I figured it was a great opportunity to improve my craft, so I jumped at the chance to take the Photography course soon after it was first offered.

What are the most valuable lessons you have learned in the U so far?

There have been lots of great lessons but I came into the course with a journalism and photography background. I definitely took more away from the later chapters about managing photography assignments, building an online audience and mastering social media. Since I joined, I’ve seen my monthly readership double a couple times. Now that I am getting more visits, its hard to double each month but it continues to show significant growth.