Emily Claire Alben
Emily Claire Alben
Photographer/Stylist/Aesthete Creative Director/Content Creator
Eagle Rock, Los Angeles, California
www.cargocollective.com/emilyalben
Instagram @coffeeandcherrypie
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I'm a film photographer, stylist, content creator, and creative director bringing my nostalgic aesthetic to look books, music videos, social media and in everyday life.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
A few steps forward and a few steps back. Not only steps but leaps and bounds, planes, trains, automobiles, opening my world view through travel, education, and fostering a community of creative individuals who inspire me everyday.
FOR OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR FIELD, WHAT DO THEY USUALLY LACK?
Quantity over quality. As a film photographer I'm a little bit more methodical and would rather create a superior product in a more analog way.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I've been collaborating with female artist and rapper, Boyfriend. Creating visual narratives that combine her unique feminist persona with my aesthetic. Utilizing Los Angeles' laundromats, diners, and natural beauty.
I'm also apart of Honey Power, a majority female collective of artists and djs who throw events around Los Angeles. From shows in bowling alleys to art shows in clothing stores!
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I wish I could focus on traveling and taking pictures.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
Feeling taken advantage of by businesses who won't pay for the service I'm providing as a photographer. Collaboration and trade are something I'm open to, but its frustrating when I feel like I'll lose an opportunity if I ask for any kind of compensation.
WHAT TASK KEEPS LANDING AT THE BOTTOM OF THE TO DO LIST?
x
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HOUR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Update my website and make me an online store to sell prints!
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
I wish I could go the future and tell myself now what the future holds and to (hopefully) not stress out too much!
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Autumn de Wilde is one of my patron saints of photography. She strikes the perfect balance between whimsy and truthfulness in her work. I would ask how she made a living off of doing what she loved.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Since I'm specifically looking for a full time job right now, I'd love to be somewhere where I can be creative but also learn and grow in a supportive environment.
I know I'll always make time for my own personal projects, but right now I want to find some security and start building my career.
WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL CLIENT?
I really admire companies like Reformation, Warby Parker, Etsy, and the Ace Hotel. Who employ creatives to make their business more dynamic.
On a personal level, I'd love to find a client who would allow me to travel either as a brand ambassador or to publish my photography in a publication, online, or a magazine.
WHAT IS YOUR RATE?
It depends on the project, and I'm willing to work with the client to find something that works best for both of us.
For a day of styling my recent range has been $175-$350
For photography its been $150-$375 including or plus processing
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
emilyalben@gmail.com, direct message me on instagram, or send me a snail mail letter <3
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
travel, thrifting, curating beautiful things, collaborating
This member profile was originally published in March 2016.