We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Evan Gallagher. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Evan below.
Hi Evan, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Taking risks in the creative process is an integral part of evolving as a photographer. It’s not always about those monumental, life-changing leaps, but often the smaller daily risks that shape our artistic journey. One of the most pivotal moments in my career began with a simple decision to edit and shoot a project differently, ultimately altering my entire approach to photography.
The backstory to this transformation lies in my constant quest for self-improvement and a desire to push the boundaries of my creative potential. At the time, I had been following a fairly conventional style in my work, sticking to tried-and-true methods in hopes of delivering what clients expected. However, I felt confined and uninspired, which led me to explore new techniques and perspectives.
One day, I decided to experiment with a project, taking a small risk by deviating from my established workflow. I introduced unconventional editing techniques and played with lighting in a more unorthodox manner. This minor deviation became a spark that ignited a passion for more innovative and unconventional approaches to photography.
These small, daily risks gradually accumulated, leading me to redefine my entire workflow. I began embracing a more artistic and personalized style, focusing on storytelling, emotions, and unique perspectives. The shift from a conventional photographer to a creative artist was an incredible journey that these small risks had set in motion.
As I evolved, I faced a momentous decision: saying no to certain projects or jobs that were once appealing but no longer aligned with my refined approach. For instance, wedding and family portraits, while cherished by many, were no longer in line with my newfound artistic vision. It was a daunting leap, refusing opportunities that were lucrative and popular, but it was necessary to preserve the integrity of my craft
Evan, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am originally from a small town in Maine. I moved out to Utah for college. Utah’s landscapes and the presence of exceptionally talented artists in the region fueled my artistic growth in a way that felt almost competitive. The majestic mountains, the vast deserts, and provide me with inspiration. I found myself continually challenged to capture the beauty and raw emotions of these environments through my lens.
In terms of the services and creative works I offer, my portfolio is diverse and encompasses a wide range of clients, from industry giants like Nordstrom to tech innovators like Adobe. I specialize in a variety of photography styles, from commercial and fashion to landscape and portrait photography. My work stands out for its ability to capture the essence of a moment, to tell compelling stories, and to evoke powerful emotions.
I love to turn ideas and visions into visual reality. Whether it’s a brand seeking to convey a message through imagery or an individual looking to capture a special moment in their life, I bring these concepts to life through the lens of my camera.
What I’m most proud of in my career is the ability to continually adapt and evolve. The creative world is ever-changing, and my willingness to embrace new techniques, ideas, and technologies has allowed me to stay at the forefront of my industry. I pride myself on being a photographer who is not only technically proficient but also deeply committed to storytelling and emotion.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)
I believe that NFTs can be a truly compelling tool for creators. They represent an innovative way for artists and other creatives to tokenize and sell their digital work, providing a unique means of ownership. However, I’m of the opinion that NFTs are still evolving and have not yet reached their final form.
The NFT space is incredibly dynamic, and we’re witnessing rapid developments and changes. While NFTs offer exciting opportunities, there are still issues that need to be addressed. For instance, there is a need for greater standardization and transparency in NFT contracts and intellectual property rights. Ensuring that creators are fairly compensated and that buyers receive what they expect.
The space must also tackle issues related to fraud and plagiarism. As it continues to expand, robust authentication and verification processes will be essential to protect the interests of both creators and collectors.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, for me, is the journey itself. It’s the process of exploration and discovery, the thrill of venturing into new places or even viewing familiar scenery with fresh eyes. In my perspective, the journey of becoming a better photographer is akin to honing the skill of observing the world in a more profound way.
Every day, whether it’s during my daily commute or a simple walk, there’s a unique story waiting to be told, and countless shots to be captured, as long as I’m attuned to the details surrounding me. Being an artist or creative means continually seeking out these hidden narratives and perspectives that may go unnoticed by others.
It’s the ability to find beauty in the mundane, to extract emotions from the seemingly ordinary, and to transform the everyday into art. This is what makes the creative journey so rewarding. It’s a process of personal growth, self-expression, and storytelling that never ceases to captivate and inspire me. Ultimately, the most gratifying part of being an artist is the perpetual quest for new insights, the joy of capturing unique moments, and the privilege of sharing those stories with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: evanngallagher.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanngallagher/