Below is the outline of the interview that I did with Voyage Magazine. Feel free to read it here or take a look at the interview on their website here: http://voyagemia.com/interview/meet-pierce-gainey/
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
My love for photography all started with a disposable camera that was gifted to me. At that time, it was just a fun little camera that I used to capture all of my shenanigans.
From there, it only progressed. More film cameras to more professional cameras and my room slowly started to look like the camera and tech aisles of Best Buy. Then my love sparked a new direction: DRONES. As soon as these things came out a few years ago, I was on a mission. I saved and saved and saved until I could finally purchase a drone. At that time, I had to install my own gimbal (a device that holds the camera steady) and attach my GoPro to it. It had no live view, no crazy sensors to avoid objects or any cool features that are on all of the new drones. You would have to strap the GoPro on and click record and hope you got the shot. Since then, I’ve gone through many drones, both upgrading and crashing, and my love for photography has grown exponentially. Drones give a unique perspective and can make an ordinary view from the ground look like an extraordinary view from the sky! I used to get jealous of birds since they always got this view, but my drone has helped make this view possible for me.
Please tell us about your art.
My art is my photography and videography. Life through a lens is what I like to capture, whether that is from a DSLR or from a drone. I really enjoy showing the beauty in this world. Being able to capture something in a photo form usually isn’t that easiest to do, though. “The photo doesn’t do you justice,” usually reigns true, so I try and do my best to make what we see with our eyes what you see in my work!
I would say that I am inspired on a daily basis, which takes imagination, humility and an open mind. We live in a beautiful world, and I am constantly in awe of God’s creation, which is my greatest inspiration. But, I am also inspired by even the little things such as a beat in a song or a tree swaying in the wind.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
Finances are tough… especially in my creative field. Camera gear can run you thousands of dollars for your equipment, and that’s not an easy thing to pay for. If you are truly committed to your passion, then you will find a way! Everyone has a smartphone nowadays or at least a phone with a camera on it. Start there. Master that, move on to the next. Do everything in your power to grow your knowledge and master your craft. There are so many phenomenal resources out there to help you and to guide you, so do your research! Don’t focus on the financial part; it will only bring you down. Instead, focus on the passion you have – what drives you, and the rest will follow! In the end, I can confidently say that it is worth the investment.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work? People can see my work on most social media platforms.
I regularly post my work on my Instagram @piercegainey and am very active there.
I post most of my work on my website and blog as well:
Twitter: @piercegainey
Pinterest: @piercegainey
Facebook: @piercegaineyphotos
Cheers,
