Creative Spotlight: Sisilia Piring
Interviewed by Alexa Wilson
As Sisilia Piring says in our interview, it is not hard to capture a nice picture in the idyllic light of Los Angeles. It is, however, difficult to capture an image with all the luminescence of a dream and which evokes the same sense of charm that goes along with that in a single image. This is exactly what Sisilia does--a pretty picture is a pretty picture, but Sisilia delivers more than that. Her talent hasn’t gone unnoticed, she's worked with Burberry, Givenchy, and Sephora (to name a few). Ahead the photographer, videographer, creative consultant talks inspirations, life mottos, and new projects.
You were initially introduced to photography in 8th grade, but when did you decide that you wanted to pursue it as a career?
5 years ago was when I decided to pursue photography as a career. A lot of things were happening in my life 5 years ago. It was a season of growth and new changes. I needed change badly and one of the things I clung to was photography.
Besides photography, you’re also on YouTube and do creative consulting. What motivates you?
Creating in all sorts, documenting, sharing my work with others be it in person or online, and connecting with others motivates me.
Is there a particular place, film, movement, or fellow photographer who inspires your work?
Movies: Rosemary's Baby, Eternal Sunshine. All things Wes Anderson.
There’s a real vibrancy which radiates from your work--everything from the light to the color palette just makes your images come to life. How do you capture that through the lens?
Thank you! I've always been drawn to colors. Right now it's pastels. I think living in Los Angeles has a lot to do with the light factor in my photos. The light here is just magical. You sprinkle in the beautiful LA backdrop and it's not too hard to capture a photo you'd be proud of.
You’ve worked with huge names including Burberry, Estée Lauder, and Nylon. How do you balance adhering to the aesthetic of your client with staying true to your own creative vision?
I think before I would try to shoot what I thought the client would want me to shoot, but as I've grown into my own I've realized that the clients are hiring me because they like the way I look at things. I think knowing that, while still considering the brand and look of the client helps me walk that balance.
Are you working on any new projects?
I just started a new photo series with girls I've met via instagram. Kind of going back to where it all started for me. Shooting non-models, real girls, un-edited and on film. I have a similar photo series titled 'babes' but that's a more intimate version of this one. Haven't decided on a name for the series yet as I've just started it a couple months ago, but I'm really excited about it. We'll see what it becomes. I'm also putting more focus on creating content for my Youtube channel. It's a side project I'm really excited about too. Experimenting with videos, color grading, and video editing. It's been a great challenge that I'd like to continue & play with.
Any advice for aspiring photographers?
Don't think about it too much. Take loads of photos everyday. Learn your camera and equipment(s). Post your work online via social media channels. Don't be discouraged by the numbers of likes. Do you and find what really draws your attention and keep shooting that. When something doesn't work. Do your research & change your approach. Eventually you'll catch a break, not by luck but because of preparation and work ethic.
Do you have a life motto?
Be humble. Be kind to everyone.