We asked some of the most creative folks we know to open up to us about why they chose a creative career path. Check out their responses below.

Christy Dickinson | Fine Art Photographer

I come from a family of doctors, nurses, educators, and successful business owners. None of that appealed to me, and as the youngest of five, let’s just say I was given a bit of slack when it came to career choices. In college, I bounced around from major to major, but eventually I settled comfortably in the art department. Photography was an easy choice, as I’d grown up shooting and developing film with my dad. Combining art history with photography was a perfect match for me. Read more>>

Marina Galasso | author/illustrator/teacher/crafter

I decided to pursue my artistic career frankly because I had no choice. My heart has lead me to create since I was a child which developed into a way of life for me. I have leaned on my art many times in my life for support and inspiration. As I got older I found ways to market myself and actually make a bit of income from my work but it is a by product and not the main reason why I create. I create because it keeps me balanced and happy and sometimes I happen to make money and sometimes I don’t. Read more>>

Katherine Elder | Jewellery Designer Goldsmith and Painter

I chose an artistic career because the idea of doing anything else with my life was unthinkable – anything else just felt wrong. I grew up in the classical music world surround by the arts, theatre and opera. I always wanted to make, draw, craft – painting was my happy place. The idea of being able to use my passion and skills to create everyday for the rest of my life, and in some way, how ever small, effecting peoples lives with something that I had made was all the encouragement I needed to brave the difficult path that is working in the arts. Read more>>

All On Deck Photos | California Destination Wedding & Lifestyle Photography & Videography

Growing up as a kid, I was told to follow everything by the book. To always play it safe and follow the norm. All of this changed, when I picked up my first camera back in 2017. It was a hobby at first since I just moved out of my parents place, being a full time college student and working at my 9-5 job at the time. Photography helped me see the world through a different perspective. It also challenged me not only as a person but as a creative, I would say I was an introvert but now I can confidently say I’m an extrovert. Read more>>

Cheri Freeman | Nature Photographer

Lockdown in 2020 really changed my perspective, I think it did for a lot of people. I took up photography at that time as a hobby out of sheer boredom. The big surprise was that I fell in love with it! Who knew? Read more>>

Rhyse Holder | Photographer

When I was younger, I always had a fascination with photography and cameras. I spent a great deal of my childhood watching my grandfather take photos of birds and of things he found to be beautiful. I have always loved taking photos as a child growing up, but it wasn’t until my sophomore year of high school when I joined yearbook, Read more>>

Jina Uvalle | CEO & Founder of Beautifully Twisted Publishing & Designs LLC

I wanted to pursue a creative career because it allows me to express myself in a way that is meaningful and fulfilling. I am an introvert and I have found that being creative gives me an outlet for my thoughts, feelings, and ideas. Being able to write has been especially powerful for me because it allows me to freely express myself without interruption or distraction. Designing also offers a calming outlet in this world constantly in chaos. Read more>>