Meet Alexandra Sapp | Filmmaker & Photographer

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

Hi Alexandra, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I think finding the balance will always be a part of my daily practice throughout my career. My approached has changed over time and will continue to change as my career grows. I’ve definitely learned to set boundaries, however, it’s hard as a freelancer or business owner because all the pressure is on you to make it happen. So much work has to be put in to see small progress sometimes and that can be difficult to deal with. If I’ve learned anything about finding the balance, it’s about giving time for your mental and physical wellbeing. You should always be the number one priority. Create a routine for yourself. Every morning, I love to take 15-20 minutes to stretch my body and go on a walk while I drink my coffee or listen to a podcast. It really helps me set my day before staring at my computer or shooting all day. I’m a big runner as well so finishing the day with a workout is also really important to me. I understand things get in the way sometimes, but by making time for yourself will help every aspect of your life. I promise if you work 24/7 and neglect your wellbeing you will surely burn out eventually. Balance is the key to success!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a documentary filmmaker as well as a commercial cinematographer/photographer. I’m most proud of my ambition and determination to believe in my own path. I think the hardest part of the journey is to keep pushing and believing in yourself. Making your vision come to life is what allows you stand out. Never doubt any small idea because it could turn into a long term project or your key to success.

You will have to give time to certain projects over others throughout your career. Finding the ebb and flow will always be the struggle, but making the work you care about the most will always come to fruition eventually. Taking a break from your art can sometimes be really important. If I’ve learned anything from my 6 year documentary endeavor, it’s realizing the moments of inspiration and the moments of rest. Rest and distractions aren’t a bad thing. They give time to pause and return with fresh perspective. In the stage of post production (I am in now), balancing inspiration and rest is the only way to a productive finish line!

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.
I do some gallery hopping, spend some time in Silverlake, and end the trip driving along the coast in Malibu.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Finding a group of supporters that speak the same language as you, a creative, is incredibly necessary. All of my collaborators that have helped me in my documentary and commercial work journeys are the real ones. Having mentors, collaborators, and supporters are paramount for creative success. Being those roles for others in just as important. Being an artist is about giving and receiving information, talents, and emotion. One book that impacted me the most is The Artist’s Journey: On Making Art & Being an Artist by Kent Nerburn.

Website: https://www.alexandrasapp.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandra.sapp/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrasapp/

Image Credits
All images by Alexandra Sapp