This month’s Blog Interview is with my good friend Gillian Crippen. I’ve known Gillian for many years but never knew she was a creative, let alone a photographer, until now. If you are in any way a creative who doubts yourself, or thinks you are in over your head, reading Gillian’s interview responses will give you the inspiration to keep moving forward no matter how difficult the obstacles you are facing. Gillian’s mission in advocating for mental health after the loss of her brother is so incredible. I am so proud of her, and so proud to call her my friend.

Gillian’s Bio:

I’m originally from Massachusetts, but moved to Saint Petersburg in 2007. I always loved photography and was told I had a great eye, but I never once thought I would be lucky enough to be a professional photographer.  I started working as a photographer’s assistant and I fell in love with the craft. Then I thought, “Why not me?” and apprenticed under a professional photographer, took lessons from advertising professionals, and hit the ground running. 

I am now a professional freelance photographer in Tampa Bay.  I am passionate about the art form and edit photos for free in my spare time for fun.  I’ve worked steadily as a sports photographer, advertising photographer, Avant Garde photographer, and portrait photographer. I love people of every background and am here to capture each person’s unique spirit with my portrait photography.

Links to Gillian’s work:

Website: https://www.gillianphotography.com/

Creative Loafing: https://www.cltampa.com/event/gillian-photography-grand-opening-exhibition-16704490

Interview Questions:

Question: When and how did you first get into photography?

Answer: I got into photography almost by accident. A local Tampa Bay wedding photographer posted online that he needed an assistant, so I was intrigued and decided to apply. I gave the speech that Andy makes at the beginning of the movie The Devil Wears Prada. She explains that she doesn’t have a lot of experience in fashion, but she’s smart, a quick learner, and has a strong work ethic. That was basically my interview!

I have a marketing background and have always been complimented on having a good eye for photography, so it seemed like it might be a good fit. Then I absolutely fell in love with the art form once I started working for him. He told me he would train me, but never really prioritized that, as he was focused on growing his own business. I realized I had to take my future into my own hands and started paying for lessons from a retired advertising photographer. That’s when my career really took off. At the same time, I got a job working for a sports photographer, and he had me photographing immediately all over Florida. So I learned on the job while working for him as well. I got great feedback on my photos and I started my own photography business.

Question: What inspired you to make your hobby into a business?

Answer: It was kind of my business before it was a hobby. I worked as a marketing/photography assistant for a long time before I realized I could be the photographer and conduct my business to a high standard. My brother committed suicide in December of 2019, and he was an Ivy League educated doctor. He was always artistic as a kid, and never got to express that as an adult. So I decided to live for both of us and show the world the beauty surrounding us in this life. I know very well how short life can be and how I need to live bravely and with purpose.

Question: What do you think makes your photography stand out from the competition/what is unique about your work?

Answer: I think the reason I’m pursuing photography, to capture the beauty in life after my brother’s suicide, is a unique motivation. I’m also committed to showing my children how to be driven, persevere, and not let suffering and pain win in the end. I love photographing unusual subjects that actually look really cool to hang in an artistic space. The more quirky and confusing, yet cool and soothing, the better.

Question: You have an exhibit coming up December 2nd, what is one important thing you learned in the process of creating your own exhibition/creating your photography business that surprised you?

Answer: I’m as capable as the next person! I have total faith in myself and it’s empowering. Also, all of the responsibility is on me! From the design of the photos to the marketing of my event, it’s my job from start to finish. I’m grateful for the outpouring of love and support from my friends and family. It’s been a beautiful experience.

Question: Where do you see yourself as a photographer in 5 years?

Answer: I am going to manifest and say I see myself selling my art online to hang in homes and businesses, and in galleries. I hope to travel and share my artwork and my story, and I would love to speak to people struggling with mental health. I’m flying to Maryland next week to be a guest on a podcast where I tell my story. It’s taken me 4 years and a lot of therapy to get to this point, and it’s so rewarding.

Question: Besides being a photographer, you are the first parent I have interviewed for the blog.  Has it been a challenge to balance your passion for photography and family life?  If so, how do you manage?

Answer: Yes, it’s a challenge! I am managing as best I can. I’m on the move a lot. I take photos of families at Saint Pete Beach a few days a week, so it’s a lot of driving back and forth. My youngest son helps me work on my portfolio, which is really cool. Maybe he’ll be a professional photographer one day. I hope my kids see how hard their mom is working to provide for them. And also how I’ve turned a personal tragedy (their uncle committing suicide) into creating tangible beauty for all of us.