We had the good fortune of connecting with Brittany Ha-Nguyen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Brittany, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always gravitated towards creative outlets since I was young. I love that there are no limits and boundaries in art – in fact, it is encouraged to be bold and different. My favorite classes in school growing up always revolved around creating, whether that was painting, music, or film, and when it was finally time for me to decide what I was going to choose as my career, the clearest answer was pursuing something in the arts industry.
As a dreamer, it’s exciting to be able to have the opportunity to bring those crazy ideas to life through my work. Seeing a small thought transform into a full project and facing those obstacles during the process has been so fun. I also love the community that forms through these projects. Although it is a daunting path at times, the risks and rewards make everything worth it.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As both a filmmaker and photographer, I approach both forms of art in very different ways.
For film, I find it so exciting to bring nonexistent worlds to life while also tying a relatable story that speaks to a specific audience. There is no right and wrong to a story, but every film provides a safe space to challenge people and allows them to consider different types of scenarios. I personally gravitate towards fictional worlds where I can play around with the “what ifs” while also having the characters deal with real life issues. I also enjoy playing with technical elements within my films and seeing how I can tie theatrical elements into it.
For photography, I enjoy creating images that have different elements that bring the story to life. Whether that is with a prop, hair and makeup, or location, I love to play around with how to approach an image differently to give it a story that evokes curiosity for the viewer. I also love hyping up the people I photograph to help them feel confident during our session!
Getting to where I’m currently at professionally has had it’s ups and downs. There have been countless times where I’ve felt defeated and lost, but I’ve learned through this journey that you have to make the conscious choice to keep going even when it’s difficult to be able to succeed. There have also been plenty of victories that remind me why I chose this career. I know I’m in the early stages as a professional artist, but I’m learning that the wins and losses combined make me a unique creator and have helped me learn how to navigate everything. It’s not about always coming out on top, but also embracing the fails and growing from them.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
This is so hard because I love so many places in Arizona!!! I would definitely start by taking them to a few different coffee shops – I personally love Light Heart Coffee or Moxie Coffee Company. Then I’d take them to the Phoenix Art Museum, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, or Wonderspaces to check out some really cool art (personally obsessed with the firefly room at the Phoenix Art Museum). I’d also take them to make some candles at Candle Chemistry because it’s so fun and relaxing! I think I would have to take them on a day trip to Sedona and do a hike there as well!! Honestly, this list could go on and on.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shoutout my family! My parents and sister have been a constant and strong support system in my story. They have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams and take the path I want to despite the obstacles that I may face along the way. They have listened to my countless ideas, given me feedback, and have been my number 1 fans throughout this entire process. I truly would not be the person and creator I am without them by side and I am so thankful to share my journey with them.
Website: brittanyha-nguyen.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittany.hanguyen/
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-ha-nguyen
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv46fcjx-n5DFs6lWo0a4zw
Image Credits
Caleb Davidson Media Kailey Beth Photo Garrett Bennion