What do the words "Creative Community" bring to mind for you? How do you feel is the best way to utilize members in a Creative Community?

My “Creative Community” consists of Photographers, Art Producers, Art and Creative Directors, Designers, Project Managers, fellow Agents, Producers, Stylists, etc; i.e. all those who contribute to the process of creating commercial art.
I think the best way to foster a strong camaraderie amongst a community is through communication, interaction and shared experiences.

How did you discover your creativity?

My first creative pursuit was dancing. I was a ballerina and after being auditioned by Suzanne Farrell and Peter Martins, I won a highly coveted scholarship to New York City Ballet’s summer school program. Though I wasn’t able to attend, I continued to dance and my dedication to the arts was formed. I then went on to study art and history in college, spending a semester in Florence, Italy and a year in London, England.

Name the biggest challenge you have had in growing your business. How did you solve it?

The key to growing in any business is to stay relevant and to be able to evolve in an ever-changing landscape. I’ve been extremely fortunate to be able to curate a roster of photographers who are not only the top of their fields creatively, but as important, they are also smart, genuine and kind people, who also have great business acumen. Mutual respect is hands down the absolute key to a long-lasting photographer/agent relationship.

What was your first “Big Break” in your profession?

One year out of college I met a photography agent. She became a mentor and I quickly understood that this niche job combining art and business was perfect for me. I don’t know that I would have called it a “break” at the time but within a year and a half of working with my mentor, she decided to close down her business. Given that I was very certain I had found my calling, I turned that disappointment into an opportunity and opened my own company, starting with just two photographers. The rest, I guess, is history.

What's in your backpack/handbag/tote right now?

I never leave home without my laptop, my phone, a Moleskin notebook, and lipstick. Oh and sparkling water, currently I am obsessed with La Croix.

What is your MOTTO in life?

I don’t necessarily have a MOTTO that defines my life, but when I was starting my business, a quote came across my desk that has most definitely resonated through the years. “Growth demands the temporary surrender of security.”

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

Reese's peanut butter cups.

What do your parents think you do?

Not exactly answering the question, but here's a relevant anecdote. When my two sons were young, they were in a lunch line at school picking out bags of Frito Lay products. At the time, one of my photographers was shooting all of the imagery for the Frito Lay brand packaging. My sons knew that I was somehow connected to that, and bragged to some other kids in line that their mom “put the chips in all the Frito Lay bags.”

Full Name: Marianne Campbell

Profession: Photography Agent

Industry: Photography

Website: http://www.mariannecampbell.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariannecampbellassociates/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariannecampbell/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mariannecampbel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-campbell-a896292

Blog: http://blog.mariannecampbell.com

What do the words "Creative Community" bring to mind for you? How do you feel is the best way to utilize members in a Creative Community?

Talented people in need of support. An environment that lets you express yourself... Like art school. All artists need feedback from their peers. No matter how much experience you have you can always learn from others.

How did you discover your creativity?

I've been in the arts since 7th grade. My mother and uncle were talented in the arts; guess the genes trickled down. Also, being a native New Yorker helped.

Name the biggest challenge you have had in growing your business. How did you solve it?

Wow. There's a been many challenges throughout my 15+yr career. In 2000, I went belly up. Made a bunch of money, spent it on everything but photography. An experience I had to go through to figure out what I wanted. Spent what money I had left on cameras. Turned to my personal work, which is and always will be cathartic. Made good work. Fell back in love with my trade.

What was your first “Big Break” in your profession?

Hmmm, I would say shooting Angelina Jolie. Opened up a lot of doors for my work to be seen.

As for directing, A Reebok spot paved the way.

What's in your backpack/handbag/tote right now?:

You mean my 2 ton wheelie. Ha. I still shoot large-format. 4x5 linhof and an 8x10 deerdorfwhenI can. Love it so. :-) I have a SONY a7r2 with 4 Leica lenses adapted to them.

Top 3 Tips you would give someone starting out in your creative profession:

1. Think of photography as a marriage. You need to be in love to make it work
2. Have thick skin.
3. Be adaptable to all situations.

Who are you following right now on Instagram for inspiration and why?:

None too intently.

What is your MOTTO in life?

Simplistic, but stands true: "Enjoy life to the fullest; as far as I know we only live one life."

Full Name: Matt Gunther

Profession: Photographr/ Director

Industry: Art

Website: mattgunther.com

Facebook: mattgunther

Instagram: @matthenrygunther