Meet Aimee Nicolas: Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aimee Nicolas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aimee, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision was switching from a career driven by family vs passion. As first gen in our family to be born in America, the ideal career path was always something more “practical” aka nursing. I tried. I took 2 years of classes and barely passed. One day we got to that point in class where we poked each other with needles and I woke up on the floor. I knew it was time to pick something else. Having to tell my mother was the hardest part. She was not for it at first but after working for a few years she decided that choosing a career I was more passionate about was the best thing for me.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
As far as my art, I have been told that I have a very “girly” feel. I dig it. I think there is a very feminine touch to my work. Getting to that style came naturally but it took years of practice. I always wanted to update and expand my portfolio. To do that I did many test shoots with agencies and did collaborative work with other friends who were stylists or makeup artists. I learned that it is important to have a group of people you can create with.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had someone visiting I would take them to Little Toyko first. I am a huge ramen and anime fan and that area has a lot of cool shops and spots to eat and drink all in one little place. After i’d take them to Pasadena. It’s a bit of a slower pace but I find it very peaceful. Highland Park would be the next stop for HomeState. As far as art, of course I’d have them take a visit to the Art Center hillside and south campus to check out current student exhibitions.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my fellow Art Center grads / professors. It was there that we built such a great community and gave each other amazing advice and critiques. And of course my mother. Even though she was skeptical about this path, she never stopped supporting me.

Website: http://aimeenicolas.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/aimeenicolas

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-nicolas-65249154/

Image Credits
@christy.x @hannahkleit @jaimetheterrible @_mercedesmaxwell