Behind the Design

Behind the Design: Interview with Photographer Alicia Bock

Having grown up in the water-bound states of Michigan and Florida, photographer Alicia Bock‘s work is often influenced by large bodies of water. Even when water isn’t directly in her work, it’s easy to see its impact in Bock’s soothing photos with blue hues, cool undertones and soft, filtered light. Bock’s work instantly catches the eye — and we’re proud to host some of her newest pieces on potterybarn.com! We spoke to Alicia to get the scoop on her inspiration, favorite spots to snap photos and more.

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Above: Lost

Q: It’s great that you’re self-taught. Can you tell us how you started getting interested in photography?

A: I think this life is in my blood. My grandparents, my dad, my cousins; we are a sentimental group. I can’t remember not having a camera, or not being in front of my dad’s. My Grandma always had a Polaroid full of film, and she is the reason for my Polaroid obsession today.

january day dream

Above: January’s Day Dream

 Q: When did you decide to pursue photography professionally?

A: When my daughter was born (11 years ago) I quit my non-profit job to stay home with her and found myself not only taking a lot of pictures of her, but the rest of my world too. Along the way someone suggested I should apply for a local art show, which I did. Thankfully, those first few customers were receptive to my style, and I never looked back.

it was always you

Above: It Was Always You

Q: What’s one of your favorite places to photograph? Why?

A: Any beach, but I am very partial to the beautiful Great Lakes that surround my home state of Michigan. They are the places of my favorite memories, and most relaxed moments, which I think comes across in my work.

2900 miles

Above: 2900 Miles #6

Q: What kind of advice would you give a beginning photographer who wants to become a professional?

A: My best and really all encompassing advice is work hard. I work harder at this than I have ever worked on any job where I worked for someone else, and I think most people who are self-employed will tell you the same. Make a business plan, and read books/websites/articles about running a business just as much as you read about photography.

ALICIA BOCK

See more of Alicia’s work at potterybarn.com. 

 

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