"James Barkman" - VW Van Life

[@bradmantle3393]

That is my old Bus James, from 1990/91 I can tell because of the damage done to the front end - it was done on the i5 in LA, when a convertible BMW in front of me braked hard .. so i slammed on my brakes - Ps. Kombi campers don't brake well ... and I glided into the back of them. Could only afford to have the front face pulled out. The front bumper was taken off a Kombi wreck I found in the Mojave desert. The new roof canvas was paid for by one of the Aussie girls traveling with me at the time, that somehow managed to fall through the side of the old one, one night while sleeping up there. The Kombi was a joy back then, only Low miles and I paid $1600 for it from a seller in Tucoma WA. I spent 18 months traveling in that bus, so many fond memories for an Aussie on his 1st Safari ! :)

[@PraemIo]

Brad, I just came across this again from when you posted it, I passed it to James so I hope the two of you were able to connect. Small world! - Jeremy

[@bradmantle3393]

Praemio I left a little magnetic box on the front / gearbox end of the engine. If it’s still there, there a 30 year little stash to enjoy :)

[@stevezytveld6585]

Brilliant! Just... bloody Brilliant!!!

[@brianz426]

I thought the guy drove it cross country from Pennsylvania? Seems unlikely it was in L.A. in the 90’s and then went east without ever being repaired.

[@sotrab]

I had a 72 orange dual carb Westfalia. I sold it to a kid in 1999 in Vermont. If anyone ever comes across this bus I would love to see it and buy it back. I sold it for 6k and it had a re-built engine. Love your videos Brad... you are very talented :)

[@mikekuczynski1552]

Been living life pretty much like this for 71 years with no regrets . I promise it won’t hurt you . Happy Trails

[@PazuzuM666]

Wow, that's amazing!! Have you done any videos?

[@mikekuczynski1552]

@@PazuzuM666 nope , never really thought about it . I guess something to consider :-) Thanks for asking. Happy Trails

[@garygoldsmith9844]

Very cool! Love the wood burning stove. I drove a 1969 VW Camper for ten years and have been a photojournalist for 36. No regrets. Enjoy the good life!

[@sethshaffer8592]

Where does one start!?

[@renemayo6952]

Seth Shaffer it starts with a vision

[@Claudia-sm9te]

Seth Shaffer And a VW camper

[@rarerides]

And a spare 10 grand

[@MartynaKoleniec]

I'm gonna share it to my friends. Everybody say that they don't have enough money, time, whatever to follow their dreams, that they're not ready now, but the truth is you're never be ready so you have jump into it. This video is amazing, the cinematography and colors!

[@xxX-tv1hp]

yeah!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Its easy when you're wealthy. This dude is wearing Patagonia jackets, editing on a new Mac, and driving around in a 74' VW Westy. Poor people don't live like that lol

[@thoranderson9676]

@GENTLEMAN ADVENTURER Perhaps not "technically" true. When one eliminates rent/mortgage, utility bills (electricity/gas), one has reduced the ''perceived' minimal level of comfort' to what one will choose to accept as a learning experience in this lifetime, and, unless you have directly experienced 'poor', you are perhaps are throwing stones while living in a glass house. Thank you for your participation and your point and your indulgence in opposing theories as we all learn from each other. With great respect, thorfourwinds/rabunopsec Peace Love Light Hec'el oinipikte (that we may live) Mni Wiconi (Water Is Life)

[@jaredapperson]

This might be the single greatest video I have ever seen!

[@Muwex]

Thinking same and not even watched yet everything!

[@rastapopulus4107]

Than you´ve seen not very much... so I´m happy to introduce you to this vimeo channel - most inspirational videos on vimeo, by the way the real filmmaker community: vimeo.com/channels/1nspirational have fun!

[@themosho9492]

Glad you were able to find the time to comment.

[@nicolassousa2730]

Dude I know right

[@AW-xv7dq]

Beautiful

[@frederikmitk]

Wow. This is a wonderful example how to make a short documentary with really beautiful landscape shots. 12 minute and worth every second. Love it.

[@corporatestatusbrah]

I've had the pleasure of knowing James for a few years now. This guy is the most genuine person I've ever met. Congrats man keep killing it.

[@denahom]

corporatestatusbrah He's so wise and brace. What kind of burner dies he have in his van?

[@corporatestatusbrah]

Snow Blanca I have no idea sorry. All I can say is that he lives this lifestyle. He's been living in that van for years now.

[@NortheastVintage]

How’s he doing today?

[@AdventuresofAxl]

I met James in Boulder, incredible guy. Proud to say I’ve drank a few beers with him!

[@BeyondSlowMotion]

Great piece and a wonderful exposition on why adventure means so much to those who embark. Thanks for this! :)

[@PraemIo]

+BeyondSlowMotion Thanks so much! Gotta keep on truckin!

[@alterhijo164]

I still come back to this video when I seem to need it. Even though I don’t have aspirations of van life I resonate with his creative story/message. The visuals are soothing as well. Thanks for making this.

[@DavidS11]

Man, this guy is the same age as me and he is living the life

[@Tobyee]

*exactly he is*

[@richardwoolley7854]

You can too!!

[@David_Hammond]

This only gets better each & every time I watch this. My absolute favourite mini-doc. To date. ♥️

[@memowilliam9889]

Thanks for the inspiration. I'm 53 and just on the edge of a life changing moment. Leaving a great job and great benefits to drive a support vehicle for a documentary, for one year. No pay just room and board. The lifestyle is what I want to do and hopefully will lead into other jobs just like this one.

[@PETAAAGAMING]

And? 2 Years later?

[@msl5131]

Wow--this was beautifully shot with a story well-told. He's wise, courageous, super inspiring and so young! Gives new meaning to, "livin' in a van, down by the river" ♥

[@LordDavid6]

At 22 years old he is wiser than most adults in most societies. I loved what he said that you can never be fully prepared to live your dreams and you just have to trust your gut feeling and go for it. I'm 23 years old and I'm currently trapped in the 9-5 office job and this type of stories resonate with me so much! I need to just jump

[@spikephotography]

Not climbing up an electricity pylon he's not.

[@cavvyg5520]

the color grade on this is amazing

[@kirkleidy1985]

You can tell you put a lot of work in shooting and editing this, very nicely done!

[@PraemIo]

Three days of shooting in Snowy/Rainy/Cold Oregon in March, with a round trip from Los Angeles on either side! - Def was a blast! - Jeremy

[@pr0n3]

Well done for sure!

[@kevinlenninrodriguezvazque2575]

He did. He inspired me.. Sometimes I forget what is my road. People like him remind me what it is.

[@bigjayfitness]

I love seeing people do this. It's becoming alot more common. you don't need a 9-5 to make a living guys..take advantage of the time we are living in

[@jeromeglick]

It's basically due to wireless Internet that allows you to submit work from random places. Or job hopping

[@craigfleming1837]

Wow!!! And to think I was about to skip over this video. I'm certainly glad I didn't. Simply amazing and wonderful life lessons shared. Thank you for being you!

[@HowardHearne]

Shot of motorcycle through the tent, good one.

[@wslandry]

Congrats for you and just stay on the adventure and you will be happy. These are the years to take chances do what you love. Wow if I could only be 22 again. Good luck!

[@rafaelespindola3208]

dude!!! life goals right here!!

[@addk3]

What a man. What a coach... 22years old. 2 advanced already. Wish you all the best!

[@velocity800]

He has the energy because he’s young.....the thing money can’t buy....youth !!

[@Barrrt]

I have so much respect for this dude now. Woah. Thanks.

[@briangee4561]

So inspirational man! I'm currently living in SF finishing my third semester of college. I've been so intrigued by the van life and now I think I am going to go for it! Don't know how soon i will do it but i am definitely going to do it. Appreciate the video so much. Mad respect

[@migwi.n6746]

Hello? How are you doing three years later?

[@Lilliac2004]

this guy is awesome his speech was amazing it made me not think what others think and to just follow my dreams and do what i like without worrying about what others might think!

[@Raychristofer]

Outstanding piece, outstanding.

[@melchizedekkerketta5963]

Adding outstanding again made it likeable. Fam

[@toms1373]

Real and inspirational. Living life with the bare essentials and fading out the distractions which can drown out what really matters. Instead gaining a strong understanding and gratitude for what you are and what you have.

[@nidyaelaouanna3205]

I've got to tell ya, I have watched this video several times: nicely shot, well lit, shots have been well planned, seriously well edited, perfect sound, and your character is incredible. You've hit the jackpot, but not by luck, but hard work, dedication and talent. I'm officially a fan!

[@PraemIo]

+5 Shots Media thanks a ton! - Jeremy

[@Strelnikov10]

This guy's understanding of developing work ethic is what is drastically missing in our generation. With his attitude, he will make things work, no matter what he's doing. Great video!

[@InaW20]

Found your Video! I reaaaally like it :) Go on! I will check out your channel! Best to you,Ina

[@fruitbat8424]

Remarkably well made video and what a fantastic young well balanced man James is , I wish I had his maturity and outlook on life when I was his age ,enjoy your journey hope to have an update on how things are working out for you .

[@fivama]

I've found your channel and, man, it's the indie petrolicious 👌🏻⛽️

[@PraemIo]

Nice of you to notice :), Praemio was created by Valkyr, who have also created nearly 60 Petrolicious episodes over the past two years!

[@stephanyandreas]

This gives me goosebumps! So much beauty and adventure - this young man definitely feels more alive than 99% of us all... Respect! When he one day has to close his eyes the last time - he will regret.... Nothing!!! Owning only what fits in a van and wake up in nature with the sun is something amazing - pure freedom 😎

[@SidneyDiongzon]

This is awesome. inspiring stuff man.

[@irchristo]

I am inspired by your independent spirit. "Wherever you are, be there with all you heart." Wise words! Keep going, you're on the ball!

[@22wall]

The person filming you in this video is a great artist, excellent job

[@greigga1]

Man, what a great story.........a real insight into a bright young mind & soul. Bravo James!

[@HDFilms2]

Really great insight and cinematography, wise words!

[@mafb023]

This vídeo inspired me in so many ways. This is exactly what people should have in their minds instead of thinking so much in what ways could they possibly do to make others accept them. STOP instagraming food, STOP sharing selfies on Snapchat and Start Living!

[@brunozadro]

3 more years and then i hope to do the same.. Traveling, meeting different people and playing my music

[@stewboy5490]

Hopefully we'll meet on the road brother, I'm just starting to save up now as well (damn University delayed me).

[@brunozadro]

same here friend! one day for sure

[@mountainmarty]

two years to go man

[@GiuseppediSaronno]

Congratulations for daring living your life the way you want ... some (many) of us remain stuck by fear !!! I admire you !!!

[@Oliverokland1312]

When you notice how beautiful and crisp the footage looks like but then you realize the dslr (body only) costs 15k and you are like NOPE

[@PraemIo]

After my first 1DC was stolen, I bought a used one from B&H for 5K, they now retail new for 5K! All the people that spent 15 are probably not happy about that but in truth it's 4yr old technology in that camera, and realistically the 5Dmk4 for all the hate it gets, shoots virtually the same image quality at 4K. - The more you know! www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/855962-REG/Canon_EOS_1D_C_EOS_1D_C_4K_Cinema.html - Jeremy

[@Oliverokland1312]

Praemio I can get a used 1dS for 1.1k, 1d mark 4 for 1.7k and a 5d mark 4 for 2.3k. Which one would you go for?

[@PraemIo]

Oliver Okland 5D4!

[@Oliverokland1312]

Well i guess its star to save up money

[@seanstraub103]

Oliver Okland The 5dc is $5000.

[@djtoman6875]

This video was shared as a great example of film making. I took one look at the subtitle it was given on that page, like "photographer promotional video," saw it was over 12 minutes, and groaned. BUT then I started watching it, and the combination of the unusual story, James's personality, wisdom, energy, and the simply compelling cinematography and editing just made the time fly by. Fabulous job all around.

[@lowercvse]

Anyone notice the huge amount of shotgun shells at 5:12? Haha

[@PraemIo]

+James d'Shone I didn't and subsequently got a massive flat from it. Of course the Bus remained unscathed!

[@kevin6596]

Wow, good eye!

[@mikesax]

Amazing eyes!!!!!

[@saurav4180]

I haven't seen a better video than this.... Really awesome.

[@Shreddiespaghetti]

freakin awesome video man! you've inspired me to get a van.

[@G-Maq]

Seriously, I watch this video all the time. It's my inspiration, one day I'll live free and take my photography on the road! Love it!

[@PraemIo]

+Garrett Mcwhirter 👏🏼 Keep on Keepin on Garrett!

[@thomasj5722]

This might be a stupid question, but how exactly is he making money driving around in that bus taking pictures? Clients hire him along the way to do projects?

[@brucemccredie2689]

Love your story. A true story teller and story maker. It is inspiring to see someone pursue their dream and break free of the shackles of a regulated lifestyle. May your story be one that inspires and empowers others to do likewise and not just pursue but live their dream.

[@RileyNotRyan]

You'll have plenty of time to take photos.. when you're living in a van down by the river!

[@tymac3306]

I read that and literally Chris farleys voice took over the words “down by the river”,...

[@lukebohemian]

7 years later and what he says still holds truth 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@zakrichardson4196]

Wow! The editing and shots in this is really well done. Can tell you put more of an effort into this daily vlog versus most daily vlogs. How many camera men did you have to help shoot this?

[@PraemIo]

Haha not sure I'd consider it a blog but okay! there were two of us on a three day shoot +Zak Richardson

[@zakrichardson4196]

Very nice work, love your content!

[@PraemIo]

Thanks Zak! - J

[@ekanastone]

Praemio what bike do you have?

[@LevinBe]

lol a vlog? A vlog is something u record on a regulary (mostly daily) base, edit a bit and then upload. U show what happens in your life in that 1 day or week. This right here is more of a documentary - one of the best i've ever seen. To classify this as a "vlog" is almost a bit insulting.

[@oOcitizenOo]

The footage is beautiful, sceneries are stunning and the whole color tone made me think this is one of the best video i've watched lately.

[@TheJohnmakaron]

@Praemio Love the wallpaper in 2:36, is there any way to download it?

[@PraemIo]

best to ask James himself! > www.jamesbarkman.com

[@TheJohnmakaron]

Whoah, thanks for the prompt response. Kudos!

[@idrissaguilar9881]

Praemio bb

[@canteenadventures]

WOW!!! James is truly an inspiration. Beautiful work and he is living the life!!!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I love VW's, especially those early 70s Westys. However, if you plan to be trendy and live in one in the year 2017? Its just not practical. They suck in the snow, they breakdown so often, parts are hard to come by, eat so much gas. I understand the allure of traveling the countryside in one of these majestic beasts but it just doesn't seem practical.

[@angelicalitsiou816]

Beautiful video and what an inspiring young soul. I've been struggling a lot lately to stay on my grind and get through all my photography and projects, a lot of the things he was saying hit me and made me feel like it's allllll gud. Much love for you, your van and your dirt bike James, keep living the life bahd.

[@carlostorres633]

What camera is he using?

[@globalpeoplewatching]

canon 1dc i think

[@mochilamistica7001]

Amazing video, history, character, visual and really inspiring! For those who loves travel and photography this is really a dream!

[@willplu6483]

can I please get the link to his computer background with the bus at 2:37

[@PraemIo]

You'll have at ask James! > www.jamesbarkman.com

[@knia1995]

have you found it? I couldn't find that particular picture on his website...:-(

[@willplu6483]

someone posted it on reddit! www.reddit.com/r/pics/comments/5ks2wa/yosemite/

[@corporatestatusbrah]

Will Plu its posted on his Instagram. James Barkman is his user name.

[@corporatestatusbrah]

Will Plu that's not the same picture. It's a famous spot, but that's not his van.

[@folyamat]

You got me profoundly impressed now! I am 21 now but after watching this video I do feel that it's the life I want to live. So just keep going and I cannot wait to give you one day an update!

[@94Discovery]

Min 6:25 change the mass air flow meter wtf it is a carburetor 😱

[@fernandoluis773]

94Discovery change the head?

[@alfredritcher]

That body is 1973 to 1979 it was Bosch EFI

[@macallen2009]

Wow, this is really a beautiful video! I haven't been moved by a documentary like this in a long time. Great work!

[@MyMdon]

oh man pls don't climb the electric tower ..

[@cashvasco2710]

Yes!!! I love it. Beautiful filming and editing, and you've captured a beautiful soul on camera. Thanks for the video, and thanks and congratulations to the van dweller.

[@WhereToFind]

That deforestation is sad :|

[@Jamcon7]

I love the video.James exhibits a mature can do attitude that I appreciate. God bless and keep you during your travels.

[@BR7AVEONE]

sure. but how do you make money 🤔

[@stewboy5490]

Photography, WebDesign, Social Media Marketing, Sell your crafts, Blogging, KZbin, Online businesses, etc. We live in the beautiful age of the internet and it's opening so many opportunities for this type of lifestyle without being completely broke. I encourage people to download the app called 'Workfrom', it shows locations around North America where you can get free Wifi so you can work from those locations for the day. Plus there are so many websites that help connect people with the 'Nomad' lifestyle. Good luck!

[@mathieuclement8011]

Nobody wants to be on the road alone in unpopulated areas with a piece of crap that can break down any minute and gets really cold or hot, no matter what they will tell you, so I'm guessing not much money is made.

[@corporatestatusbrah]

Mathieu Clement I actually know him and he loves living in that van. He would sleep in it in parking garages, while having an apartment. He makes money off photography and interned with one of the best.

[@okhabin]

I'm doing something that I absolutely hate "out of fear of what's gonna happen" if I don't choose this route and stick with it, and in the process, I'm losing the grip on what I truly wanted to. I'm incredibly jealous of your courage to believe in what you want to do and just doing it, and your life in general. Thanks for the inspiration! Bravo and go you!

[@Muwex]

#thedream

[@sharktooth64]

I have a 74 Westy and have been all over North Am.. same color.Cool to see your stuff.

[@diegorosado4480]

it's great leiving in a van and all that stuff but then I ask myself, or him, where do you take a shower where do you wash your clothes?

[@RogerSteen77]

Your questions are answered here: roger-steen.squarespace.com

[@ronlippitt]

Really inspiring. You're learning more in your early 20's than most people do their entire lives.

[@fejkaTV]

great thing... but what about the loneliness?

[@hyperiz]

loneliness isn't a factor when you learn that you are your best company!

[@fejkaTV]

watch "into the wild" mate..

[@hyperiz]

fejkaTV Thanks man, I will!

[@maz7621]

lmao, "watch into the wild mate" ya

[@heliosmediafilms]

you re never alone even if you re alone, thats the point i guess

[@RubensGabriel]

A movie or documentary about him and his life would be awesome.

[@alifeworthfinding2838]

Bro your videography skills are insane and your message is second to none . I'm a full timer I travel in a vintage camper van . I'm new to videography but I learn fast . Your vids are what I'd eventually like to do in quality and location . I just got inspired , thanks !!!

[@billyhughes9776]

Inspiring. Love to see young people doing what they love and living their life this way. Good luck young man.

[@davidbutlerstudios]

100% agree with all of this! His story is so well told, amazing work to all involved!

[@garrettburch2992]

You said you wanted to inspire people...you definitely inspired me. Crazy watching this video and then at the end seeing the PA license plate since im from PA...love it

[@nobbystyles4807]

thiis guy has such a fresh take on it and its helpful too. ive literally talked myself out of so many adventure because of bullshit reasons like where do i store my stuff while im away. but i dont need that stuff. food for thought defo.

[@lilianshen]

very cool! it's awesome that you were able to make this video too, really expands your portfolio and gets it around the network of photographers :)

[@pepsicolla123]

Woah, what a wonderful life he has! I know there are a lot of difficulties and discomfort being on the road, but it's great to see beautiful nature, meet awesome people, go to different places ;) .

[@ARcaptures]

This is a truly special video. It's hard to find films this good anymore online, because, as James says, it's saturated. But there is so much here that I profoundly believe in!! Thank you so much for sharing and inspiring me to continue to push towards the creative lifestyle. I subscribed.

[@mfmarshall4478]

James, you rock! You have inspired me, motived and moved me to live my dreams!

[@coolstuff8857]

Very talented photographer and this was one of the amazing productions I've ever seen.

[@pmow]

I will never tire of these commercials.

[@Mulva234]

Gawds... I'm jealous of that lifestyle! All I think about is travelling and taking photos and video. Mid life crisis for me. Very cool, thanks for sharing!

[@kriso122]

One of the most inspirational vid I've ever seen!!! What a great smart guy! And so young!! Well done.

[@colinworobetz6662]

What a great job conveying the character in James. Love the tale, love the imagery. Killer job!

[@ginayajesmer2616]

The definition of carpe diem! What an amazing story; this makes me want to start some adventures.

[@vilmospeter6599]

you are the embodiment of the adventure-/risk-taker, living his dream free person I'd like to become! first steps were already taken to get the taste of this lifestyle..hoping on continuing.. Best of luck James! I hope you wont get tired anytime soon! Take care my good sir..

[@ImanoffGolf]

This guy is crazy! I’m so envious. I wish I had a courage like him to really pursue what my passion is. Great video!

[@chilinsnOball]

nice feature on this guy. bol in all. yes. follow your heart. keep rollin.

[@PraemIo]

#vanlife! Cheers Rich!

[@firetofork]

This is epic. That fire in the van is next level!

[@Khoudi_91]

Awesome and inspiring. Thank you for sharing such a great story. Never give up, your dream is out there.

[@hassansheikh2615]

You are so amazing and inspiring! Loved you van, easy life style (well it looks easy but I know it isn't!!) and beautiful photographs!! Well done mate and look forward to see more of your travel stuff 😎😎😊👍👍👍

[@dscoder]

This dude is so well spoken! Such an inspiration