Guest post - Katie McKinnon

Katie came on to thevisualCollective as a model and a muse, and quickly became a friend as well. Here’s what she has to say about her experiences with tvC so far.

I never anticipated how much a group of people like this would affect me. I

always knew I ought to be surrounded by creative minds such as myself, but I didn’t

know such wonderful people existed nearby. That is, until the collective entered my

life. Andrew invited me on an adventure to Death Valley, and I knew it was just what

I needed to get out of the winter funk. On top of that, Matt reached out to me and

needed a model for a daytrip adventure involving umbrellas. I could not resist.

Lastly, upon meeting neighbor Taylor, I had a wonderful feeling everything would

just fall into place that day.

Grand Falls, Arizona, and I had never been before. Umbrellas, waterfalls,

hitchhiking, suitcases, guitars, and fashion set the mood for the day excursion, and I

was hooked. Until that day, I had never been so aptly directed and inspired by a

group of photographers. I feel as though my creative persona had been perfectly

captured by three photographers each with their own perspective. I will always

treasure that day as the beginning of a wonderful artistic journey with friends new

and old.

Death Valley was not a part of the plan for me, as my work schedule

interfered, but I happily accompanied the group to Willow Beach, AZ. This was

another new experience for me, as I had never explored the Colorado River in such

an exhilarating way. The boats were fun, the sunshine was plentiful, and the creative

minds were inspiring. I was able to perform as muse to Taylor amongst sand and

brush with river in the distance, creating more wonderful images while getting

dirty. Getting dirty is very important to the creative process, which is why having

access to these wonderful locations, is absolutely necessary. A studio simply would

not provide the same effect or experience. The location is part of the inspiration.

On that note, I very much look forward to Zion National Park with thevisualCollective.

I know these gentlemen have wonderful ideas set for us, and the rest of

the group will bring their own inspiration as well. Each trip brings us closer

together, and each time we learn more about ourselves as photographers,

videographers, and models. This time around, I will be able to enjoy the entire trip,

while also learning more about the photography aspect from the group. I plan to

bring a lomography film camera and try my skill at creating behind the lens. My own

personal fashion designs will also be a part of various shoots, including a skirt made

of neckties. And, do not fret; I also plan on bringing my umbrella.

<3 Katie