A New Light
If you've been following my work for a while, you might have noticed that I haven't made many new products since, eh...2016 or so. About that time I moved to NYC, started an awesome job, got engaged, and got married. And needless to say, my little business took a back seat to life. And that's okay! it was a wonderful time, and honestly I don't have any regret about re-prioritizing things, and still don't. My family comes first and I get to express my creativity in many new ways that I love. (Also, thank you for sticking with me through all that!)
That being said, I sometimes feel sheepish about the products I do have. Instead of feeling excited and eager to share them with others, I get this ‘ho-hum’ feeling. I look at my old product photos and they feel stale. It’s a total bummer. Feeling stagnant is the last thing you want when you’re trying to grow a business.
The truth is that I really do like my designs. When I look closely at one—when I pull out a card and handle it, write a note in it, seal it, address it, and send it—I do feel a wave of warm fuzzies. I remember when I painted each design. I remember where I was, the people in my life, the way things were. My art transports me through time. It illuminates my past and helps me see how I’ve grown, changed, and stayed the same.
It’s precious to me.
I want to see my old work in a new light. So I’m updating my product photography. Hooray!
Product photography can be quite an undertaking. From the lighting to the styling, there's a lot to consider. It's also vulnerable. These photos will say something about my brand, and ultimately about me. What do I want to share? What do I want others to know and feel? Plus, what I say (even with pictures) inevitably invites feedback. Do I really want to hear it? Am I humble enough to receive it?
I decided to cocoon my art with objects that are meaningful and bring me joy.
A hand-carved wooden box. My grandpa made this as a gift for my grandma when they were young. The top swivels open, and the words “I love you” are etched on the lid. My grandma gave this to me after his passing, and it truly is one of my most beloved items.
An apron. This one is from Hearth & Hand. Aprons remind me of hard work, exploration, and creative abandon. You can tell I haven’t worn this one nearly enough because it’s too clean! Aprons are surely happiest when they’re covered in paint or clay or color—remnants from hours upon hours of artistic adventure!
Paints and pallet. This beautiful pallet is made by Sarah of Sylvan Clayworks. I’m a big fan of her work, and love seeing her process. I actually just ordered another mini pallet, perfect for on-the-go painting!
Overall, I really like the vibe.
These photos are helping to bring new life to my art. And the process of photographing them is helping to bring new life to me!
What aspects of your life would
you like to see in a new light?