Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Mediate.
Alex, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
When I started getting into photography, I was a freshman in high school in Las Vegas, NV. I was accidentally placed into the photography elective and immediately fell in love. It seemed to be one of the only classes I truly cared for as I would work so hard to advance my photographic practice and be my own biggest critic. I was never the best at drawing or painting so communicating my ideas photographically really changed my life and my perspective on art-making. When deciding on colleges and what I wanted to study, it was very obvious that I wanted to pursue photography and advertising design, which is how I ended up in Los Angeles! I attended Otis College of Art and Design and obtained my Bachelors of Fine Arts. It was one of the best choices I’ve ever made because now I live and work in Los Angeles which has been a dream of mine since being a child. I love the way photography is incorporated into everyone’s life and can bring people and communities together. Photography can highlight certain aspects of reality that are usually hidden or looked past, which is why I feel it is such a valuable medium. I was always questionable as to whether I can produce photographs for a living to generate income and support myself, but thankfully I worked hard enough to get to a place where I can say that it is completely possible. There are people who need creativity from artists/designers to get projects rolling. I didn’t realize how valuable being an artist was until I stumbled across numerous freelance gigs that relied upon my creative energy and input. Although I have a full-time job in the fashion industry as a jewelry photographer now, I still shoot on film for my fine arts practice as the photographs I create for myself make me continue loving this medium that I have really put my all into.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Like any journey in life, there are always certain obstacles that make you doubt yourself. While I was in college, I was really freaking out about finding a job and being able to keep living in Los Angeles. With all the new iPhones and cameras available to literally anyone, I questioned why someone would even think about paying for my photographs. The over-pollution of imagery we all have to look at every day really discouraged me. I would always wonder what made my photographs better than the millions of images taken and uploaded on a daily basis? Thankfully, I stayed true to myself (and got more into graphic design) which set myself apart from others. Another challenge I’ve faced is trying to accomplish exactly what my clients want. I usually try to put my own spin on projects but it doesn’t always work out. Finding the balance between what I am proud of creating, and following a company’s pre-set standards, adds complication to the mix. It truly takes trial and error but when you hit the sweet spot, the process is always worth it. If you have a dream, you have to work towards it and succeed (which is something that I’ve always had to remind myself). I’ve definitely had it easier than others because I’ve had the privilege to attend a college I really wanted to go to, I have a family that supports my endeavors (after proving myself), and I established myself in Los Angeles with a connection to other artists and designers.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am a photographer, retoucher, and graphic designer. My work tends to fall in the fashion photography genre which is a turn my photographic style naturally took. I try to bridge the connection between fine arts and fashion in my practice. When I am shooting commercially or for a client, I have to really key in on what they are looking for. I try to take design risks with careful attention to the goals of the project. Something that sets myself apart from others is the amount of empathy and compassion I carry. I truly care about people and their interests so it can be overwhelming at times trying to make everyone proud. I am one of those photographers where I will do it again until it’s right, and I will do everything I can to make it as perfect as it can be. What I am known for is probably my fine arts work. I currently am a part of a group exhibition in Miami through the YoungArts foundation entitled, “Can we be as brave?” I was also recently a part of a group pop-up exhibition in Echo Park August 3-4 through the Good Company. I am most proud of my fine arts endeavors and would love to have a solo-exhibition one day! I love the multiple avenues photography can take (either fine arts or commercial) and I am interested in exploring both and producing the best quality work that I am physically and mentally able to make.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Well, for starters, I want to thank my high school photography teacher, Tony Flanagan, for making me realize I could pursue photography as a career path. Then when I got to college, the two professors that truly made an impact on my work were Siri Kaur and Soo Kim. Without these three mentors, my work wouldn’t be anywhere near to where it is now. They really pushed me and made me question what I was taking photographs of, and why. All of them never let me off easy and would be completely straight up in their critiques with me. Their input would spark new creative intentions that I still incorporate into my work today. Next, I would have to thank my family and close friends. I wouldn’t have been able to get through college or focus completely on photography without their support. They are always there for me when I’m super stressed out or feeling defeated. They pick me back up and make me realize that I just need to keep grinding harder. Having a network of supporters has been trivial in my success. Doing it on your own can happen and work, but it is way better to have a shoulder to cry on if you need it, and someone to push you to your fullest potential.
Contact Info:
- Website: alexmediate.com
- Instagram: @alexmediate
- Facebook: /alexmediate
Image Credit:
Personal Photo: Lucia Rosenast
All others: Alex Mediate
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