Do you most often actively seek inspiration or does it find you? Or is there a combination of the two?
My inspiration is a combination of both seeking and finding. I can find inspiration in the smallest things; it’s all around me. Nonetheless, I still find myself searching for new ways to express myself.
What led you to art in general and to your art form(s) in particular?
I was born into a very creative and artistic family. I’m drawn to all types of art but capturing natural beauty through my lens inspires me the most.
In addition to mastering their art, what other skill sets do you recommend that artists develop if they want to be successful?
The main skills I recommend are networking and learning how to market yourself as a brand. You must also have self-confidence, perseverance, and dedication.
How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft?
I stay at the leading edge of my craft by maintaining creativity along with collaborative efforts to bring imagination to life.
Do you think that there are any widely held misconceptions about art and/or artists? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?
Yes, people see artists as modern day hippies and feel like art is not a talent. To resolve this, I try to expose art to as many people as possible; some people will reject it but many will grow from it.
Why do you consider learning important?
Knowledge is power; those who lack it lack the necessary tools for growth.
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?
I declare that Jesus is Lord and remain focused by keeping humility and gratitude in mind. I also continue to maintain and affirm my originality.
What role would you like to see art play in the community?
I would love to see more art programs especially for the youth in our communities, which can be run by other local talented artists.
What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?
Technology is used in various ways at Merciful Photography. As a photographer and digital artist, a SLR camera, computer as well as an awesome editing program is needed to create magic.
What software, app or other technological innovation has made the biggest difference in your life and/or career?
A few technologies that come to mind are digital cameras, editing programs, and the Internet. Without Adobe Software CS6, which I love, I would have never been able to bring my creative images to life. Without the Internet, I would not have access to one of the best marketing tools of our generation, social media sites. Without the digital camera, my unique style of photography wouldn’t be possible.
Please define your personal brand.
My passion for art and a love for photography became the birth of Merciful Photography. I love to capture natural beauty and the rawness of an image from behind the lens while still maintaining the beauty of the photograph. I strive hard to bring an artistic look in everything I do which Is the true definition of “Urban Art with a Creative Twist”. I enjoy assisting others with their own brands in anyway I possibly can. I often say Merciful Photography is a platform for many artist, models, actors etc. to begin their own branding process.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
That there would be more cultural peace and love united throughout the world that would bring us together as one. There would be less violence, more peace, and more unity which seems to be the perfect harmony to me.
What does it take to be iconic?
Doing the unthinkable and making it believable. You have to change the industry that your are involved in and open everyone’s mind to something new.
How did you arrive at this career choice? Was it a deliberate decision or a gradual and natural evolution?
My craft is a talent that I stumbled upon. At the time, I was into creating digital artistry, which turned into a passionate love for the art of photography.
What separates you from others in your field? What is unique to the experience that you create?
I believe that there are no rules to creating art. I tend to break all the rules and stipulations in this business to create my own style within my craft. I am known for the colorful brightness of my work and unique style of “blending,” which is a combination of multiple exposures in one frame. Ultimately, this is a creative experience that involves photography and art at the same time.
What other industries connect to your career choice?
Fashion, music, modeling, and entertainment of all kinds.
Define innovation methods you apply to your business and life.
Marketing myself on social sites is the newest method added to my daily routine of promoting my company.
