Jun 17

Jun 17 Kelsey Ann Rose TALKS: on the Joy of Pent-up Creativity

New York-City based Interior and lifestyle photographer Kelsey Ann Rose is always working on a new project and keeping creatively busy. Like most artists, today she is finding a new normal and trying to find new ways to stay creative.

What are you doing to stay creative during this time?

Being creative has looked a lot of different during this time. Cooking has become a huge outlet and I really find pleasure in taking the time to plate each of my meals. In addition to a few small photo projects from existing clients early on, I've been reading like a bandit, doing word searches, doodling in sketchbooks, anything I can do to keep my hands busy. I'm also currently in the process of creating a home studio in my second bedroom. I'm excited to have such a close space to create and have spent time sourcing new equipment, backdrops and props to play with.

What projects do you hope to work on once this lifts?

I can't tell you how excited I am to be back behind the camera and on set collaborating with others. I hope to jump back into working with brands and advertising clients, as I was before. I've always loved what I do, but being forced to take this break has only reinstated my passion towards photography and I'll be sure to never take it for granted again. I'm ready to take all this pent-up creativity and put it towards some fun projects after this!

What’s been the most challenging part as a creative?

I think the hardest part for me has been the pressure of productivity. Everyday has been different. Some mornings I wake up with a project in mind and get right to it, while other days I find myself unable to creative anything and I've had to learn to allow myself to be okay with that.

What do you miss the most about the city and plan to do once this lifts?

I miss the opportunity to explore. A lot of my inspiration as a creative comes from long walks in the city. Summer has always been my favorite time here and I can't wait to start exploring new streets again, stumbling upon new coffeeshops or local bookstores.

How has your daily routine changed?

I've really been enjoying my slow mornings. I try to be mindful while making my coffee and reading out on my fire escape, before hopping online to check emails. Without having the usual pressing deadlines everyday, I'm able to spend more time sourcing inspiration for future projects. I've been looking at other photographers work that I admire and digging through old books and magazine editorials I've collected over the years. My usual routine doesn't always allow for time to plan personal projects and tests, so it's been refreshing to focus on concept, rather than the execution.

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Author: Elizabeth Hazard

Elizabeth Hazard is a creative director, producer and writer with several years of experience producing content for magazines, websites, brands and artists. Liz has worked with some of the most accomplished talents in the industry to conceive, develop and produce photos, videos and written work. A published author, she frequently writes about fashion, art and cultural topics for websites and publications. She also holds a certificate in curating from Node Center for Curatorial Studies in Germany.

Photo credit: Kelsey Ann Rose.

Model: Maggie Houlihan