THE ROCK STORIE'S
CHELSEA WARREN
Stay true to your passion and yourself. Something I didn’t follow right away and wish I had! It’s ok to say no to things that you aren’t interested in or that doesn’t fit your artistic style.
Where are you from?
Where are you from Victoria, BC, Canada
Before being a photographer, tell us what you wanted to be?
I have my Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and planned on going into research.
Tell me about the moment you decided to become a photographer?
As a graduation gift to myself I bought my first DSLR camera, then never used my degree!
What was the best advise you received when you started your photographer carrier?
Stay true to your passion and yourself. Something I didn’t follow right away and wish I had! It’s ok to say no to things that you aren’t interested in or that doesn’t fit your artistic style.
Can you define photography?
For me photography is the art of capturing light, to create an image. I love how it has evolved over the years from film to digital – but in the end, whether it’s a raw film slide or a heavily edited digital file, it’s all the use and manipulation of light.
For you, what makes a good photographer?
A good photographer is able to create an image that evokes feeling to the viewer. Whether the viewer connects with the subjects or moments captured or just are attracted the light or use of colour and composition. A good photographer is able to read emotions and body language to react and capture those moments.
For you, what makes a good photograph?
A good photograph evokes emotion. I am a believer of a good photograph having feeling over technical perfection every time! A photo can be done technically perfect and not create the draw and intrigue that connects someone to a photo, and a photo can be missed focus, off frame or slightly imperfect and create a beautiful mood!
What is your biggest challenge today?
Continually working on balance. Finding the balance between work and home life, being creative and being consistent and staying true to my style and staying current/relevant.
Tell us about the day you felt most proud about your work?
I feel most proud of my work when it is inspiring others! There are so many incredible artists and inspirational photographers out there, it’s a wonderful feeling when someone reaches out to say you’ve inspired them to try something new, or create something different.
Tell us about the relationship you have with other photographers?
I am a huge believer of community over competition. It’s so important in this industry that we be supportive towards one another, and work to lift each other up. I have many colleagues I admire, support and am genuinely happy for in their success, and they are equally happy in mine. Without that sense of community, choosing a career in this industry would be lonely and competitive and filled with negativity. I actually co-founded a community of 13k photographers that is built around the idea of community, support and growth and I love it! (Ladies Behind the Lens – Co-Founded with Eva Cherneff)
Can you tell us an advise - photography or business tip - that somehow made your career evolve at any point?
It’s going to sound cheesy, but the point my career really evolved was when I actually started to believe in myself, in my art and created imagery I wanted to rather than what I thought people expected to see. Once I started putting work out into the world I was proud of, and genuinely loved, everything changed!
