Meet Pinkie Ranckey

We were lucky to catch up with Pinkie Ranckey recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Pinkie, thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.

Creativity blocks are an inevitable part of any artistic journey. As an artist, I’ve faced my fair share of moments where inspiration feels completely out of reach. Over time, I’ve learned that trying to force creativity rarely works—instead, the key is to outmaneuver the block by approaching it from unexpected angles.

One of the most effective methods I’ve found is switching creative mediums. If I’m struggling to write a song, I don’t sit there staring at a blank page in frustration. Instead, I pick up my camera and start shooting, or I turn to painting and let my hands create something without overthinking. Creativity isn’t confined to one form of expression—it flows through different outlets, and sometimes shifting gears helps unlock new ideas.

Another technique that works for me is setting limitations. While it may seem counterintuitive, placing constraints on my work actually sparks creativity. If I tell myself, “write a song using only three chords,” or “take ten photos using only a 35mm lens” I remove the pressure of perfection. These rules force me to focus on the process rather than the outcome, which often leads to unexpected and exciting results.

After all, I remind myself that perfection is the enemy of creativity. It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that every song, every photograph, or every painting needs to be groundbreaking. But the truth is, creativity is about showing up and doing the work—even when it feels messy or incomplete. Lowering the stakes and allowing myself to create something rather than waiting for the perfect idea has been one of the most freeing lessons I’ve learned.

At the end of the day, creativity is fluid, and blocks are just temporary obstacles. By shifting perspectives, setting playful constraints, engaging in movement, and embracing imperfection, I’ve found ways to navigate through those inevitable moments of stagnation. The key isn’t to fight the block—it’s to find new ways around it.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

Creativity has always been at the heart of everything I do. As a songwriter, photographer, and visual artist, my work is all about capturing emotions, moments, and stories in ways that resonate deeply with people. Whether it’s through music that speaks to the soul, wedding photography that preserves once-in-a-lifetime memories, or handcrafted art that brings a personal touch to everyday life, I strive to create work that is not just seen or heard—but felt.

One of the things I find most exciting about my journey is the ability to connect with people on multiple levels. My songwriting is deeply personal, often inspired by human experiences, love, and the beauty found in everyday life. My photography, especially in the wedding industry, allows me to witness and document pure, unfiltered emotions. And as an art teacher, I get to nurture creativity in others, helping young artists find their own voices.

For anyone who connects with art that tells a story—whether through music, photography, or painting—I’d love to invite you to be part of this journey. My goal is to create work that moves people, sparks conversation, and brings beauty into everyday life. Keep an eye out for upcoming projects, performances, and new creative endeavors—I can’t wait to share more!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my creative journey, I believe the three most important qualities that have helped me grow both as an artist and as a professional are adaptability, resilience, and sincerity. These qualities have allowed me to navigate challenges, stay true to my craft, and continue evolving in a constantly changing creative landscape.
1. Adaptability
Adaptability has been crucial in every step of my career. As someone who juggles multiple roles—songwriter, photographer, and teacher—being able to adjust my approach depending on the situation is essential. Whether it’s shifting between different projects or adapting to the needs of the moment, adaptability has allowed me to stay fresh and responsive. The ability to switch gears, experiment with new techniques, or take on new challenges keeps my creative energy flowing and ensures that I’m always evolving.
Advice for early creatives: Embrace change and be open to new opportunities. The creative world is always shifting, and flexibility in your approach will allow you to find new ways to express your ideas. Don’t be afraid to explore uncharted territory—you never know what might inspire you next.
2. Resilience
In any creative field, resilience is key. The road to success is never a straight path, and there will always be setbacks, disappointments, and moments of self-doubt. Resilience has been my anchor through tough times, helping me bounce back after failure or rejection and continue moving forward. It’s about maintaining a sense of determination and not letting obstacles define your journey. Resilience allows you to keep going, even when the going gets tough, and to learn from each challenge along the way.
Advice for early creatives: Understand that rejection and failure are inevitable, but they don’t define you. Every no, every misstep, is an opportunity to grow and improve. Cultivate the strength to rise again after every setback, and keep your eyes on the bigger picture.
3. Sincerity
Sincerity, or staying true to myself and my creative vision, is the quality that has kept my work authentic. Whether I’m writing a song, capturing a wedding moment, or teaching a class, sincerity ensures that I am honest with myself and with others. It’s about being genuine in my work, not compromising my artistic integrity for external approval or trends. Sincerity allows my creativity to flow from a place of authenticity, which makes my work resonate with others on a deeper level.
Advice for early creatives: Stay true to your vision and voice, even when it’s tempting to follow trends or seek validation. Your uniqueness is your greatest asset, and when you approach your work with sincerity, it will resonate far more deeply than anything created out of imitation or external pressure. Authenticity is what connects us all.

How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?

If I were to learn that I only had a decade left to live, the way I spent that time would shift dramatically. In the face of such a reality, every moment would carry more weight, and I would make deliberate choices about how to spend that precious time.

Above all, I would prioritize the people closest to me. Relationships are at the heart of everything, and no amount of time could replace the deep emotional connections we form with others. I would spend more time with family and friends, making each interaction meaningful. Whether through simple moments of laughter or heartfelt conversations, I would ensure that I fully immerse myself in the joy of being with those I love. In a world full of distractions, I would focus on the quality of time spent together, creating lasting memories that would remain even after my time here ends. I would also invest in nurturing new connections, forging relationships with those whose paths I had not yet crossed. Life is too short to let opportunities for deep, authentic relationships slip by, and with just a decade remaining, I would seize every chance to expand my circle of love and support.

On top of that, travel would be a central aspect of my life. There are so many places in the world I’ve yet to explore, and I would seize every opportunity to experience different cultures, landscapes, and people. Whether it’s wandering through ancient cities, hiking in remote forests, or simply sitting by the ocean watching the waves crash… Travel is more than just a change of scenery; it’s a way of expanding one’s worldview, understanding different perspectives, and finding beauty in unexpected places. By experiencing the world in all its complexity and splendor, I would deepen my appreciation for life and gain a greater sense of gratitude for the time I’ve been given.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: pinkieranckey