Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Brien Adams of Stamford Connecticut and NYC

We recently had the chance to connect with Brien Adams and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Brien, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I finally decided to load up the film camera and make trips to NYC again and just shoot photos! I reminded myself to bring my camera everywhere. I want to create pictures and capture moments that will last a life time. I think I finally found my true love again. I really find joy and having the slightest hope that I captured something golden.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Brien Adams and I am a photographer from Stamford Connecticut just 45 minutes outside of the best city in the world, NYC! I recently started my own photography business and my last business adventure was working for Guinness World Records which I have now photographed 9 jobs for them! I assist a photographer/good friend of mine that works for WWE who has taught me immensely. I also work for Sarah Lawrence College, EXPLO, Intempo, the Westchester land trust and many others. When I am not making money from what I do I love to roam around NYC and shoot 35mm film and capture random people. I tend to get a little larry’d up on alcohol and just shoot photos of interesting people. My photo teacher, Curran Hatleberg, in community college gave us a life long assignment to photograph strangers and It originally scared the shit out of me. After 10 plus years of doing this I can finally say I gained my confidence to do this but I still find myself scared sometimes.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think the internet and the news breaks the bonds between people because we are attracted to everything negative. The news is nothing but negativity and brain wash in my opinion. Politics and politicians will never solve the answers and unite the nation either. I think letting go, getting outside and showing people you are kind and loving is the only way to restore faith and positivity in humanity. For example people love it when I take their photos especially when it is followed or started with a compliment. It makes people feel special and important.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Not being good enough and being scared held me back. I truly had Imposter Syndrome and did not think I was smart enough or good enough to be successful. It wasn’t until people started to actually like my photos and know me as the photo guy around town. I would start to constantly see all my friends profile pictures be the photos I took and I started to get more and more work as a photographer. That’s when I finally let go of the imposter syndrome and said, “Wow I think I can actually do this” When your idols tell you stories of them growing up dirt poor, not giving up, and if you dream it, it can come true. Listen to them! Your dreams can come true!

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I recently saw an interview with Zakk Wylde talking about when he first joined OZZYs solo band. He said, “Zakk just play with your heart” and then proceeded to poke him in both eyes. Zakk said, “why did you do that” and Ozzy said, “because life is fucking tough deal with it”. I know I will never be the best or as good as my idols or peers around me. What I can provide is something unique and different. It may not be the best but you will have a good time with me and the photos will be shot differently. I truly do believe Zakk played with he heart because he himself was not Randy Rhoads. He did one hell of a job and I believe I can do one hell of a job too! R.I.P OZZY

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing? 
Having a good time and taking days off to make art. Life is short so try to enjoy everyday as much as possible. If you’re having a shitty day at work go to a pub after and have a laugh, even if its for an hour. One good laugh can cure a shitty day in a second. Try to think positive and positivity will follow.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
New York City

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