Bethel Bits: Home is on the court
Nathan Klok experiences the thrill of being both a professional photographer and full-time business student at Bethel University.
By Hannah Quinn | Royal Report
Standing on the football field, he finds the perfect angle and presses the shutter of his camera, Leonard XI, a camera he named after his great grandfather.
Junior Marketing major, Nathan Klok, squats to get the perfect shot of the tackle, the interception or the winning touchdown. Taking photos has been a passion for Klok since he was about 10-years old. He follows in the footsteps of his grandfather who was a photographer in the Vietnam War.
“I have no idea how to be a normal fan. Home for me is down on the court.” — Nathan Klok, photographer
At Bethel University, Klok pursues his passion for photography by capturing athletics, music, academia and other Bethel sponsored events.
“I have no idea how to be a normal fan,” Klok said. “Home for me is down on the court.”
As a student worker for Bethel, Klok is the man behind most images seen around the university. If something interesting happened on campus, there is a good chance that Klok made an appearance, camera in hand, ready to get the perfect shot for the next Clarion newspaper, Instagram post or Bethel magazine.
Outside of Bethel, Klok has had unique opportunities to capture photos for the MN Vikings, MN United FC, HED Cycling company and more. He has also been published in the Star Tribune, Pioneer Press, Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce and for the City of Cottage Grove.
Starting his photography business at the age of 15, Klok achieves success thanks to individuals in his life who have been alongside him, leading him, both spiritually and professionally.
“Never sell yourself short,” mentor and local photographer Steve Rooker often encouraged him. “With all work, be a good Christian for how a Christian should act.”
If Klok isn’t being run over by a Bethel athlete, MN Vikings or MN United FC player, he is taking photos all around campus, enriching the lives of students through his talent. Finding time to be a normal student can be stressful for him, however, his photography remains the “biggest blessing [he] has” and he desires to use this blessing “to bless others,” Klok said.
