We recently connected with Emily Miller-Fitzgibbons and have shared our conversation below.

Emily, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Happier? I mean, maybe…

Content. Reflective…proud, even.

That question is one I constantly ask myself, as well as whether or not I’ve made the right choice or if it’s too late to change my mind. I think of it in times when I have my slower weeks/months with my clients, and even when I have a packed schedule with gigs. The question is even in my head now, as I work on a few current film projects that make me feel like I’m in over my head; the doubt sets in and the question repeats itself. But continuing to surround myself with other artists that inspire me is also therapeutic while traversing the nuances of this industry. Artists like my peers and mentors, to list just a few…

But my answer’s the same each time – yes, I’m “happy” that creativity is my passion. It’s exhilarating. While creatives may have an untraditional career, it still teaches us lessons that a “regular” job probably couldn’t. I’m always learning something new in this creative process, and I feel it’s supposed to be humbling and even motivating when I don’t know the answer to something I face about myself or my job, because that’s a way to grow as an artist.

I couldn’t help but laugh when I saw the question asking about “happy artists”. There’s a certain “jaded/struggling artist” joke that tends to float around the internet and art industry – and there is some truth to it, at least to a certain extent. I think it’s safe to say we do struggle – we’re struggling to adapt to the things that happen to us in life, which, yeah…can make us jaded. For most of us, the core of our art is connected to our experiences…both the good and the bad.

Just as authors, comedians, or musicians can take artistic inspiration from their life experiences, the same can be applied for filmmakers, photographers, or painters – it just depends on the person. The creative field is no doubt a mental and emotional challenge, but we all know the results would be unsatisfying if the process was easy.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started my art business back in 2017, but I have been invested in the visual arts for over 10 years now. Drawing and painting opened my eyes to the world of photography & cinematography, which I have been doing for the past 4 years.

When it comes to paintings, I primarily paint people, pets, and wild animals on various-sized canvasses. It’s truly a fun job, especially when I film the painting process and upload it to YouTube (link is below)! I’ve done art commissions for people in and out of state, and even for some from other countries. My paintings are fairly stylized, as I like to add a “cartoony” style to some realistic elements. It makes me feel like I’m taking a photoshop project out of a computer and bringing it to a new organic reality…if that makes sense.

In relation to my photography, I primarily do headshots, nature photography (for canvas prints) and pet photography. Of those three, I honestly love being able to photograph peoples’ pets. Ranging from chihuahuas to mastiffs, quirky moments turn to memories, and every photoshoot I’ve had has been a blast – those days are often filled with many laughs (and barks…from the dogs, not me).

As for cinematography, whether it’s for local businesses or narrative films, I love to make someone’s vision a reality. It’s invigorating when you see words on a page come to life in a camera and tell a story that can hopefully relate to others. Being on set with others is an experience that always offers new lessons and opportunities. When working with the people you know and respect, they become almost like a second family. Best of both worlds.

Pricing:

–Paintings ($100-$800+) – varies with size choice and shipping
–Photoshoots ($200-$450+) – varies with package choice and customizable add-ons
–Promotional videos ($350-$900+) – varies with package choice and customizable add-ons

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Ooh, good question. I can’t say there’s one better way than another, but I think being present for us artists is a huge help, as well as understanding the value and effort behind our work. It’s hard to stay relevant and keep a finger on the pulse of society when there are so many changing elements with social media, trends, algorithms, etc. that seem to fight the natural progression of creativity. Artistic progress and growth are supposed to be a “race” of sorts, but not a rat race.

It almost feels like social media wants creative people to be more like machines rather than artists, and it seems to lead to creative burnout before we even finish a project. When our best doesn’t seem to be enough, it makes it easy to fall into the aforementioned “jaded” mindset, especially when we feel we aren’t progressing enough in the eyes of AI.

So, the simple act of following us, commenting, sharing our work (& crediting our name), watching our work, etc. helps us out immensely. Or, reading an interview like this – it means the world (so please share it with others)!

Coming to a film festival or an art show we’re in, seeing us, talking for a bit – it’s reassuring to be able to see the faces of the people who support what you do, and have a heart-to-heart conversation with you guys!

Sure, a modern AI bot can make something from a short prompt and a press of a button, but please still ask us artists to make it. AI is great in many ways and can no doubt be used to enhance art, just as long as it’s not used to replace artists. Invest in our work and spread the word. The rawness and love put into art made by hand is much more authentic than that of a “bot”.

It’s our livelihood.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

It’s probably when I get an email, text, or phone call from someone who wants to commission me or work with me – it fills my heart knowing someone appreciates the work I do.

Kind of relating to what I said above, being able to share my art with others is gratifying. Given this saturated industry, having my own audience, even if it’s 10-30 people at a time, is great. For me, talking to them or seeing some sort of response – it recharges me enough as I head into the next project, and it gives me a sense of excitement and confidence in doing so.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t also mention that it’s been rewarding to have my mother who consistently supports my career choice. She’s the type of person that has always encouraged me to go against the grain no matter the challenge, follow my gut, and to pursue what truly makes me happy. While trying something new in my field of work can make me uncomfortable at times, it’s the journey of each project/challenge that really makes it that much more rewarding in the end.

Contact Info:

• Website: millart4you.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilymiller_millart4you/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-miller-fitzgibbons-863432185
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkeb_d-7PVB6WogWtndrmXg
• Other: 2022 Cinematography Reel: https://youtu.be/5dbzKaQGXCM

Image Credits
Emily Miller -Holly Valenzuela (of Emily) -Anna Thorlaksdottir (of Emily) -Trevor Riches (of Emily) – Jonathan Fitzgibbons (of Emily)