We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Hunter Nickless a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hunter, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

What did my parents do right? First of all, they have always been incredibly supportive. They raised me to stay humble, no matter what accomplishments come my way. My mom especially taught me to take pride in myself and in my work, the real reward is believing in myself, and that compliments or awards are just a bonus. She constantly puts her own life aside to make sure I have every opportunity possible. In many ways, she’s like a “momager.” She helps manage my connections, and organizes my schedule when it gets overwhelming. Because she takes so much off my plate, I’m able to focus on my craft without drowning in stress. Her support allows me to take the time to continue growing my craft.

Hunter, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Hunter Nickless, I’m 16 and I live in Virginia. I started in the industry acting when I was 8, I’ve been in short films, commercials, TV shows, and a feature film. My whole life I have always been fascinated in photography. While, being in front of the camera I always have been interested in everybody behind the camera. I transitioned to behind the camera going on 4 years ago now, and I still do acting as well. Transitioning behind the camera made me fall in love with film even more. Filmmaking helped me notice the little things in life, because sometimes we all tend to just look at the big picture, and not take the time to notice the small things about life and individuals. It helped me see more of the beauty in life, and have the freedom for creativity and imagination. I love how film is so collaborative because a film is made when everybody’s creativity is brought together to make a beautiful piece of art. I want myself and my work to inspire others. I want to show that art is art no matter what you create, or what people think, and you don’t need to wait for someone’s approval to do what you feel you’re destined to do.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I think the key is to just be your authentic self. Always stay humble, stay true to your heart, always be driven to learn new things, and be collaborative.

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

Being able to create your own world or bringing another persons imagination to life. I also learn more about myself through art. I feel I can escape to a different reality. Also, being proud in my work and noticing my progression through my art. It’s one most awarding feeling seeing the emotional connection my art has on my audience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hunternickless.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/hunterpnickless
• Other: https://www.hunternickless-photography.com/

Image Credits

Jacob Cruz, Laundry Townsend, Evan Kinnear, Joel Ortiz Photography, Jeremy Bustin Photography