Often we're asked about the types of stories we like to cover here at BUNCH Magazine. The answer is as simple and complex as, "stories of daring creatives." But if you want us to be more specific, we can say, read this story from photographer, Louisa Wells. At the ripe old age of 22, she admits that her road to being a photographer was bumpy, paved with learning curves and a lack of training, but she pushed through. Presently, she runs her photo studio, The Life Observed, from home. TLO is "about giving people a unique view of iconic destinations, locales, and subjects and presenting them in a new, minimalist light. My goal is to help people appreciate the power of black and white imagery, bring new perspectives to places that may be familiar, and help people explore new destinations and experiences to bring into their homes." Her tenacity and willingness to take leaps for the love of her work is what BUNCH is all about.
Continue on to see why Louisa Wells is a Daring Creative.
When did you decide to pursue your current career path?
I picked up photography in high school when I wanted to take quality photos of my dance team. From there, I started practicing more in college and took classes, eventually I became one of the “go-to” portrait photographers on campus. It was then that I realized that I loved shooting and wanted to stay involved and learn as much about the industry as I could.
How does the city you live in influence your creativity?
Well, New York’s reputation precedes it, but it’s definitely influenced my creativity in that I’m constantly pushing myself to find new angles of looking at things and making art. There are so many people here who are willing to collaborate, vibe and just influence each other through their art, and being in a community like that is truly invaluable. I find myself not “keeping up with the Jones’” but rather see what everyone else is doing, love it, and then go back to working on my own “thing”.
In your words, what does it mean to be a “creative”?
To me, being a creative is a term that’s always changing. Not only are you a creative in that you have your craft or skill, but also that you’re part of a larger community of creatives—which includes not only people who are actually making art but those that appreciate it. Being a creative to me means being someone who keeps their eyes and minds open to new art forms and ways of thinking.
Has rejection ever affected your creative process? If so, please describe.
Absolutely. Rejection only pushes me to work harder, to learn more, and to do work with even more determination.
In thinking about the things that you have created, is there something that you hated but the public may have loved - and perhaps purchased?
In terms of photos that I’ve given to clients, there has definitely been work that I’ve put out there that people were satisfied with but it wasn’t my favorite work. As I’ve grown, I’m working on making sure that everything I put out there is absolutely top quality and the best work that I know it can be, starting with my print shop.
What has been the pit and peak of your week so far? (a low and a high moment)
The peak of my week was reaching some social media goals that I had for my print studio business. It’s great seeing people becoming engaged with the art that I’m putting out there. A pit was getting down on myself about my work. Sometimes I see people on Instagram/Vine working and shooting when I’m in the office doing work (I do love it though) and I get a little jealous. I then have to remind myself that we are one different creative paths, and that usually helps me feel a lot better.
Who is someone famous that you think is killing it at the moment? In other words, is there someone whose career you admire.
I’m not sure how famous she is outside the direct industry, but Kat Irlin (her Instagram is @Kat_in_nyc) is seriously killing the game. She’s a CFDA contributing photographer and is constantly booking shoots with big names in the fashion industry. I admire her work and she seems so down-to-earth. Also, our shooting styles are similar and I am constantly looking to her for inspiration.
Finish this sentence:
I want people to remember me as: the girl who inspired them to follow their own dreams and passions.
If I only had 24 more hours to live, I would: Go be with my family and closest friends. They’re my lifeline.
If I had to choose a theme song to represent me it would be: Without a doubt, Put Your Records On by Corinne Bailey Rae.
For more on Louisa Wells and The Life Observed studio, check her out here.
Photos by Louisa Wells.