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

Kai, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

There’s this new project that I am going to be introducing the rebrand/new way of how I’m going to be creating my work I’ve been working on the journey to creating “NEW SAINT” was a tumultuous one, marked by my personal failures and professional setbacks. I tried to confront challenges head-on, but I wasn’t ready for the weight they carried. Creatively, I found myself in a state of dissatisfaction—I wasn’t truly happy with my work; I merely tolerated it, settling for only what I’ve known

My failures extended beyond my own dissatisfaction—I failed my team and the people I was working with. I attempted to communicate, but miscommunication plagued our efforts. I missed deadlines, promises fell through, and things didn’t happen as planned. The long wait times and unmet expectations left everyone frustrated and disheartened.

In the middle of all this, I found myself in a state of disbelief and shame. I realized that I had to prioritize my own happiness and well-being before I could truly be there for my team. I had to rediscover myself and my passion for photography by tapping in and doing something I have never done before.

As I reflected on my journey, I realized that I had been following the same path for nearly six years. Deep down, I yearned for something new, a fresh perspective that would reignite my creativity and drive.

“NEW SAINT” became my opportunity for redemption—a chance to tear down what I had built and rebuild it from the ground up, at a slower pace and with greater intentionality. It’s not just about creating photography; it’s about becoming a better leader, communicator, teammate, and creator.

I’ve come to understand that I have the potential to be greater, but it requires a journey of self-discovery and growth that I’m still on. “NEW SAINT” is the first step on that journey—a testament to my resilience and determination to come back to the scene and also rebuild my business to be what it should’ve been all along

description from new project “NEW SAINT”

For this new collection while navigating this transition, Kai remains committed to keeping “NEW SAINT” fun and fresh, infusing his photographs with a dynamic energy that captivates the imagination. Embracing an ethereal aesthetic, Kai infuses each photograph with a sense of magic and wonder, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of discovery.

With a blend of sophistication and playfulness, “NEW SAINT” invites audiences to embark on a visual journey where every photograph tells a story. Kai Gordon’s innovative approach breathes new life into familiar concepts, offering a fresh take on the beauty that surrounds us.

COLLECTION RELEASES APRIL 2024

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

Back in May 2018, Saint Claire was merely a playful idea—a made-up media company concocted by me and my friends in an attempt to snag backstage passes for Rolling Loud. Spoiler alert: it didn’t quite work out as planned, but it sparked something unexpected.

Fast forward to October 2018, and fate intervened in the form of a birthday celebration. One of my best friends asked me to snap some shots for his birthday bash using a camera we had lying around for YouTube videos. Little did I know, those pictures would change everything.

My friends were blown away by the results, urging me to explore photography further. And so, I did. I dove headfirst into the world of photography, fueled by their encouragement and my newfound passion.

Years passed, and Saint Claire evolved into something beyond my wildest dreams—a creative media agency teeming with talented individuals and models who bring our visions to life.

So, what do we do? At Saint Claire, we’re all about harnessing creativity to craft captivating content that leaves a lasting impression. From photography and videography to graphic design and beyond, we offer a diverse range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

What sets us apart? It’s simple: our commitment to authenticity and innovation. We’re not afraid to push boundaries, experiment with new ideas, and challenge the status quo. We’re driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a passion for storytelling that sets us apart from the rest.

What am I most proud of? It’s the journey—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From a whimsical idea to a thriving agency, every step of the way has been a testament to our resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination.

So, to all our potential clients, followers, and fans, here’s what you need to know: at Saint Claire, we’re more than just a creative agency—we’re your partners in creativity, your allies in innovation, and your guides on the journey to success. Join us, and let’s create something extraordinary together.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

In the early days of building my audience, engagement was key. I made a concerted effort to connect with my followers by constantly interacting with them and organizing giveaways to show appreciation for their support. Additionally, I made it a point to show love to other creatives in the scene, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

However, when I first embarked on the Saint Claire journey, I hesitated to reveal my identity. I was apprehensive about potential judgment and criticism from others. But as the brand grew and my confidence in my work solidified, I made the decision to step into the spotlight and share myself with the world.

I’ll never forget the moment I decided to reveal my face on my business page—it was a pivotal moment that brought me closer to my audience. I shared the story behind my initial reluctance, and the overwhelming support and encouragement I received reaffirmed my decision. People appreciated the authenticity and vulnerability of my message, and it served as a catalyst for deeper connections with my audience.

From that point on, I understood that to truly connect with my audience, I needed to be unapologetically myself. I embraced my passions, shared my journey openly, and allowed my authentic self to shine through in everything I did. It was through this transparency and authenticity that I was able to forge meaningful connections with my audience and convey the depth of my passion.

that’s why with the “NEW SAINT” collection I’m more vulnerable than ever I messed up but I want to get better and rebuild i needed a proper way to release this collection a meaningful for solely myself that i want to release to the world and hope it can inspire others

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Absolutely, here’s a message tailored for those aspiring to enter the creative field but encountering challenges along the way:

To those who dream of stepping into the creative realm but find themselves grappling with doubts and uncertainties, I want to share some insights that might illuminate your path.

One thing that non-creatives might struggle to grasp about our journey is the importance of finding your tribe—the people who share your values, your passions, and your vision. In the beginning, it might feel like you’re navigating uncharted waters, but trust me, there are others out there who understand and appreciate your creative aspirations.

Don’t be afraid to voice your ideas, no matter how unconventional they may seem. Your unique perspective is what sets you apart, and it’s what will ultimately lead you to success. And remember, failure is not the end—it’s merely a stepping stone on the path to greatness. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, grow, and come back even stronger.

Start small, but start nonetheless. Whether it’s a passion project, a side hustle, or a bold venture into the unknown, take that first step. And as you embark on your creative journey, let your brand be a reflection of who you are and what you stand for. Your story is your greatest asset—embrace it, own it, and share it with the world.

I know firsthand the challenges of bringing a dream to fruition. It took me two years of planning and a leap of faith to see my vision come to life. Along the way, I encountered setbacks, doubts, and moments of uncertainty. But I was fortunate enough to find a group of like-minded individuals who believed in my vision and supported me every step of the way.

As you continue on your journey, remember this: change is inevitable, and not everyone will stay by your side. But those who truly believe in you will remain steadfast, cheering you on as you chase your dreams. Believe in yourself, believe in your vision, and believe that greatness awaits on the other side of fear.

So, to all the dreamers, the visionaries, and the creators, I say this: keep pushing forward, keep dreaming big, and never lose sight of the magic that lies within you. Your journey may be challenging, but remember, nothing worth having comes easy.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://newsaint.art/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/svintxclaire/ , https://www.instagram.com/sctheagency/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kai-gordon-46a50316b/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@saintclaire9593

Image Credits
Shot by Kai Gordon from Saint Claire