Meet Anthony Nibbs | Photographer, Creative, Producer, Musician, Manager, Educator

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

Hi Anthony, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?

To be honest, my work-life balance sucks. *lol*

There have been moments in my life where I have managed to achieve some semblance of order; spurs of time where I’ve been super motivated and effective in my time-management skills that enabled me to increase both productivity and creativity. However, in the entertainment and service industries that I work in, it is rare that you have a big heads up on career advancing opportunities or even just regular work. Anything can pop up at any given moment, and because of this, I live in chaos.

Truth be told, photography isn’t glamorous as it’s painted to be, and it is very easy to become overwhelmed. When that happens, you really don’t have time for much, and you find yourself neglecting your needs that keep you sane. I have noticed though, that as I get older, I’m learning my limits and paying more attention to the “balance.” This goes hand in hand with learning how to say “no” or simply “I’m unavailable at the moment.” I’ve noticed over the years how much saying that little two-letter word could have saved me from the numerous tough situations I found myself in, but I believe in turning everything into a lesson. The journey is full of lessons that prepare you to be and make you better, and while I’m not exactly where I want to be yet, I think I’m doing okay.

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.

I have always had a love for creating. From young, I took to music. Playing in several bands and eventually going to the Berklee College of Music. Being in music, naturally you’re exposed to the world of entertainment, and I fully immersed myself in it. I’ve worked in so many aspects, from audio recording and engineering, A & R Work, production, post-production, and more recently, Management. I’ve worked on reality tv, a few films, numerous music videos and productions, being everything from P/A to cameraman, to being a producer and director. I’ve also been a music teacher at a local High School for 6 years. Despite all of those hats that I wear, I’m most known for photography. I specialize in fashion, editorial, and portrait photography, always trying my best to make my captures both visually appealing and moving. My attention to detail, while not always perfect, has allowed me to remain relevant as a photographer at home and abroad. I’ve gotten to work with amazing models, brands, celebrities, and musicians because of this.

Being from and based in the U.S. Virgin Islands is amazing because of the beauty of paradise, but it is not without its challenges. Being able to charge industry standard rates has proved quite challenging just because of the community I am in. The lack of understanding of the craft makes it hard to convey the value in my work at many times, and this has discouraged me many times along my path. Also, resources and facilities to take on big productions are not as easily accessible as they are in the states, but I think that these handicaps have helped me to think outside of the box and make the best of what I have to work with, and this shows through my work. I can truly say that I’m most proud of my ability to adapt to my surroundings and still create magic.

Many times, I’ve found myself discouraged, lacking motivation and any drive to continue creating, but I always find myself back in this seat. I genuinely enjoy the process of creating and I enjoy seeing how my work moves people. This fuels me and I’m truly humbled anytime a person commends me on my work.

Anyone can make magic out of little to nothing, and this is what I try to preach to anyone who comes to me for advice in the craft. Getting into this field can yield financial gain, but this is not without hard work and determination. If you don’t actually enjoy the work and are only motivated financially or by the clout you think you might earn, then you won’t get very far. When you actually enjoy the work, it speaks through your art.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Firstly, I would like to shout out my parents who are no longer here with me, but always in spirit. They provided a solid foundation from the beginning to ensure that I would be successful in whatever I would take on. My sister, who has taught me so much, and continues to teach me and support everyday deserves just as much praise. My friends, my old teachers and mentors, my colleagues, and all of my supporters, I appreciate each and everyone of you, because you have helped me to get to where I am today and I will always be grateful for that.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/anibbs

Image Credits
Kia Shamar Kia White Denikah Thompson Janeisha John Shener Ferdinand Quanesha James Deanna Marie Hansen Gifty Boakye