Words and Images by Jacy Case

Interview by AnnaRose Goldwitz

What made you pursue photography?

I have always been so fascinated with photography. When I was little my parents got me a small digital camera for my 9th birthday and I remember taking it with me everywhere. I took pictures of EVERYTHING and even started setting up elaborate photoshoots with my friends and cousins. I always felt that I wanted to share what I saw with the world and through photography, I could show how I perceived what was going on around me.

How did you develop this series?

The two series that are selected here are both connected to music. My favorite subject to capture is music. To be able to capture in a still image the emotion, magic, and movement of a live performance is what I try and do. I want to be able to show the impact that a song can have on an audience and on the performers themselves. In addition, the studio shots are inspired by the emotions in the artist’s songs, and every detail, from the lighting to the outfits is connected to her music.

What challenges came up during this project?

When I am shooting at concerts it is always challenging to incorporate the live lighting changes. Even though this is a challenge, it often sparks new ideas of creativity in my shots and allows me to really play around with my subjects and connect them to the bigger space where they are performing.

Describe your creative process in one word?

Dynamic

What inspires you to pursue image-making?

Being able to capture a moment, to relive it, and share it with the world inspires me.

Was there one particular photographer and/or teacher who inspired you to pursue photography?

My dad always encouraged me to take pictures. He is an excellent photographer and has taught me so much. His photography is so interesting and I always show him my photos first.

Do you like working in the studio or with natural light more?

I love working with natural light. As fun as it is to be able to manipulate the lights in the studio, you can’t beat the way golden hour shines or the blues and pinks of the sky at sunset. I really enjoy taking pictures out in nature and the next series I want to shoot will center around the magic of the woods.

What was the last book you read or film you saw that inspired you?

The book The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I felt very moved by the message that each person has the intrinsic ability to make ourselves and the world around us better. I believe that if you stay true to who you are and put in the work, anything is possible.

“There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve: the fear of failure.”

What is the best exhibition/museum you have visited recently?

I went to see The Orchid Show: “Florals in Fashion” at the New York Botanical Gardens and it was spectacular. I love gardening and fashion and seeing pants made from moss and resin-dipped orchid bolo-ties was a dream come true!

What advice would you give to people just starting out in photography?

My advice would be to take your camera everywhere and not be afraid to just snap a photo. Capturing a moment, the way you see it is so special and it is important to always remember that not every photo is going to be perfect.

If you could teach a one-hour class on anything, what would it be?

I am a big fan of hands-on learning and I would teach my class how to garden! I am a member of the community garden by my house in Brooklyn and spend a lot of time growing strawberries, tomatoes, and beans, and this year I am hoping my apple tree will produce some apples!

What is your favorite thing (podcast, album, audiobook...etc.) to listen to?

Right now I have Two Star and The Dream Police by Mk.gee on repeat. It is absolutely mindblowing.

https://open.spotify.com/album/6DlLdXBGCsSDPOV8R2pCl7?si=1j1L9NSMRA2PNhKCIuxSJw

How do you take your coffee?

Iced salted caramel latte please :)