Spotlight: Adele Sakey (Women in Photography)

How did you get into photography?

After my freshman year of high school my family and I moved cities. This wasn’t the first time we moved, but it was one of the first notable changes in my life. I’ve grown to embrace change, but at the time, I really had no idea how to grapple with the emotions of leaving the only city I had called home. Since we moved in the summer months, I didn’t have a ton of things keeping me busy. Suburban Boston, much like Boston itself, is a place that requires you to make your own fun. One day, in the midst of feeling some combination of lonely, anxious, and bored, I decided to go for a walk. On my way out the door I grabbed my dad’s old DSLR, and the rest is history!

How long have you been doing photography for?

About five years.

What inspired you to begin photography?

The previously discussed feeling of loneliness, anxiety, and boredom, coupled with a desire to create and make sense of the way I viewed the world.

Would you say you have someone that influences the photos that you create?

I feel as though everyone in my life influences my photos in some regard. I think art is the outcome of a particular set of circumstances (certain events, relationships, memories, etc), and if those factors were to change, even in a minor way, my art would as well. The degree to which these relationships influence my photography varies, but at the moment, I feel most inspired by the musicians I have the privilege of working with as well as other female photographers, many of whom never cease to amaze me.

You have a very certain and unique style. How long/how did you set on your style of editing/shooting?

Thank you! I feel like my editing style is always evolving and changing. One reason for this is because I try to infuse the aesthetic of whoever I’m photographing into the image, as a means of best capturing the spirit of my subject.

How would you describe your style?

Oh gosh. I tend to gravitate towards bright and saturated tones. I love a strong contrast, little grain/noise, and always have my prisms and crystals by my side to augment light.

How is it being a female in a male dominated career?

I will dare to say that most industries are male dominated, and even in the ones that aren’t, Z there still exist societal conventions which create an increased level of difficulty to female career development. From a young age I learned to accept this would be the case in virtually any career path I ventured down. It can be difficult to not let this mentality change to passivity, as there always comes a point when I think things just aren’t going to improve. I feel as though working within a male dominated field is as much a battle with myself as it is with the powers that be. Over time, I’ve learned to correct my self deprecating behavior by ceasing to treat my existence as something I need to apologize for and by advocating for myself; however, I still find it easier to advocate for others. In expressing my admiration and appreciation for other people’s art, I’ve fallen into communities and built relationships that are mutually beneficial and uplifting.

What has been the hardest point in your career?

I don’t know if there is a single most difficult point. Honestly, most of it is pretty difficult. I’m not ashamed to say there have been many times I’ve broken down crying from stress, fear that I wasn’t good enough, etc. I still do. Overall, the hardest aspect of my career is learning to feel content in my work, and not needing the validation of other to achieve this confidence.

What has been the best point in your career?

It’s a common saying that you’re your own harshest critic and I think this is completely true. There have been a few times when I’ve been hired to photograph someone and once I send them the photos, you can tell their confidence level has gone up. Being able to see yourself, captured by someone else, void of the flaws you overanalyze, is a gift I love giving to people.

Any advice for aspiring photographers?

Take every opportunity that comes, but don’t feel bad if you need to take a break.

Photo: Adele Sakey