We were lucky to catch up with Elle Christine recently and have shared our conversation below.
Elle, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
The opportunity to explore your creativity can be found anywhere, at any time. In my experience, creativity is only lost when we allow the repetitive nature of our daily routines to take away our appreciation for detail. Working as a content creator, part of the main job description is to be able to express creativity in an inspiring manner. There was a time that I struggled with feeling excited and motivated to express anything, too focused on how my content could measure up to others within my niche or too pressurized by the idea of perfection. I found myself creating to live, not living to create. I had lost that spark, the butterflies I felt when I saw something in life that’d make the perfect photo, or found a corner of Manhattan that made me want to set up a photoshoot. In order to fix this, I spent a period of time relearning what makes my soul smile again. I spent more time exploring new concepts for me, not for a production. I found ways to make games out of these exercises, like taking time to take photos of the little things around that caught my attention. Sitting with the scenes and color pallets that made me smile, I felt myself reconnecting to the root of my passions. This allowed me to approach content creation with a freshened perspective and a newfound gratefulness for everything around me. I’ve also started encouraging myself to pursue side projects and hobbies I enjoyed in the past again. Visiting with my inner child and participating in activities that brings me joy aside from work has brought a new fullness to my life. There’s so much beauty that we pass by on a regular basis, if we take a moment to be present there’s so much to explore and be inspired by.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’d consider myself a content creator and artist first, but I also enjoy helping others create their own brands and planning out their content. Most days I’m incorporating photography into my work, and eventually I’d like to have my own studio sessions that would be available for headshots or other shoots. My favorite part of what I do would have to be encouraging others to make their own lives an adventure by sharing my experiences. I’m grateful to be able to support and work with franchises that I resonate with like sustainable fashion brands, local small businesses, and organic skincare companies. I love being involved with every aspect of producing, and can’t wait to continue expanding my network and resume. I’ve started focusing a bit more on modeling and makeup artistry, and I’m excited to try my hand at fashion photography.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Before starting out on this path, I wish I had understood what it meant to not take myself too seriously. Just because someone might not love what you’re working on, doesn’t mean it has to reflect on you personally. There’s always going to be someone with a difference in opinion or vision than you, but that doesn’t take away from the value of your perspective. It’s okay to be adaptable, but you need to maintain your boundaries within your work to assure you feel secure and safe. There are so many different ways to make a living out of doing what you love, and reminding yourself of why you found that love in the first place will help keep you grounded in the chaotic moments.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am a huge believer in the power of networking and community, and I’d love to connect with likeminded creatives! I’m hoping to get in touch with others in the sustainability or vintage niche, as well as musicians and singers that are looking to collaborate or jam together. I’d also love to connect with those looking for a model or photographer/creative director, I’m building my resume and would appreciate the opportunity to work with you!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: elle.christine.x
