"From High School Sketches to NYC Sets: Patricia's Journey to Becoming a Photography Visionary”

In the world of photography, every artist has a unique story—a journey that shapes their vision and fuels their creativity. For Patricia, that journey began in the most unexpected of places: the art classrooms of high school, where a simple suggestion would set her on a path from sketching in notebooks to capturing the vibrant energy of New York City’s fashion scene. This is the story of how Patricia turned a teenage curiosity into a thriving career, blending tradition with innovation every step of the way.

August 17th. written by Ryan Packer

The Art of Balancing Tradition with Innovation

Patricia’s next step was the College for Creative Studies (CCS), a place where talent meets technique. Under the mentorship of Professor Bill Valicenti, she learned the value of a solid foundation. Carlos, a traditionalist at heart, emphasized that every detail matters. Perfection wasn’t just an aspiration; it was a requirement.

As Patricia honed her skills, she became increasingly aware of the gaps in her education. The photography world outside of CCS was evolving rapidly, and the traditional methods taught in the classroom began to feel outdated. The curriculum seemed more suited for those running a personal studio rather than thriving in a fast-paced, commercial environment. This realization left Patricia and her peers feeling underprepared for the professional world ahead.

The Power of Collaboration: Lessons in Teamwork from an Unlikely Source

In the creative industry, collaboration is key. Yet, during her time at CCS, Patricia found working with others to be a challenge. Despite the encouragement of mentors like Bill, who recognized the value of teamwork, many students resisted group projects. This lack of collaboration hindered the development of essential skills, leaving Patricia unready for the realities of commercial photography.

She soon realized that while the studio model at CCS had its strengths, it wasn’t enough to prepare her for a collaborative professional environment. True growth, she discovered, came not from solitary work but from blending her vision with that of others.

A Clash of Creativity and Curriculum: Navigating Challenges at CCS

No creative journey is without its challenges. For Patricia, these challenges were embodied in the leadership at CCS. The department head, resistant to change, clung to outdated methods that no longer met the needs of a rapidly changing industry. This friction led to frustration, as students found themselves torn between their love for their craft and a curriculum that wasn’t keeping pace with the times.

Years later, after reconnecting with other CCS alumni in New York, Patricia realized she wasn’t alone in her struggles. Many graduates shared the same feelings of being ill-equipped for the professional world. But these obstacles only fueled Patricia’s determination to carve out her place in the industry.

From the Midwest to the Big Apple: A Leap of Faith into the Heart of the Fashion World

The decision to move to New York was more than just a change of scenery for Patricia—it was a leap of faith into the unknown. One of her first jobs in the city was at the iconic Louis Vuitton store on Madison Avenue, a place where luxury meets the hustle and bustle of New York. While the job offered a front-row seat to the world of high fashion, Patricia soon realized that retail wasn’t where her heart lay. The work, though glamorous, lacked the creative fulfillment she craved.

Encouraged by her cousin, a seasoned New Yorker, Patricia began exploring opportunities on set. Her persistence paid off when she landed a coveted role as a production assistant. This role opened the door to a new world filled with long hours, hard work, and the thrill of bringing creative visions to life.

Learning the Ropes: From Human Traffic Cone to Production Pro

Stepping onto a film set for the first time can be overwhelming, especially without formal training. Patricia’s early days as a production assistant were a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Initially, she found herself serving as a "human traffic cone," standing in one spot with little direction.

Things began to change when a kind colleague, Veronica, handed her a PDF guide to set slang. This small gesture made a world of difference, helping Patricia navigate the complexities of set life. Gradually, she moved beyond her initial role, taking on more responsibilities and proving herself as a valuable team member.

Climbing the Creative Ladder: From Background Coordination to Big Productions

With each new opportunity, Patricia’s confidence and skills grew. As she moved up the ranks, the scope of her work expanded. Before long, she found herself working on larger productions, including the Apple TV series "The Crowded Room" with Tom Holland. Coordinating background actors in the heart of Manhattan was a far cry from her early days of standing still on set. This progress was a testament to her growth—a journey that had taken her from a high school art class to the bustling streets of New York City.

Rethinking the Degree: Lessons Learned Beyond the Classroom

The value of a degree is often measured by job offers and starting salaries, but in the creative industry, its worth is more nuanced. Reflecting on her time at CCS, Patricia recognizes the importance of the technical skills she acquired. However, it was the lessons learned outside the classroom—on the job, in the studio, and on set—that truly shaped her career.

In the end, Patricia’s real education came from experiences that couldn’t be taught in a classroom. It was through moments of challenge and growth, uncertainty and discovery, that she found her true path—a path she continues to walk, one creative step at a time.