“Editorial Photography Has Changed My World”: Interview with Kensi Fearing
By Jan Crystal
Kensi Fearing describes herself as a bubbly Hufflepuff, enneagram 4, and Scorpio. We describe her as a talented artist with a background in drawings and is now a photographer, embracing the editorial world with open arms.
Self Portrait by Kensi
She is on a journey of rediscovery and acceptance, continuing a lifelong process of expressing herself and trying new things. “Editorial photography has completely changed my world and I love expressing myself through creative concepts.” says Kensi.
Describe yourself in three words
Bubbly, empathetic, and warm.
How did your artistic journey begin?
I started drawing around fifth or sixth grade and became obsessed with the feeling of expressing myself creatively. I would write my own plays and stories, then translate those stories into drawings. Throughout middle school and high school, I was pushing myself to grow my craft as an artist.
What advice can you give aspiring artists?
Do not let your lack of equipment stop you. Hone your skill and knowledge before you jump into the most expensive supplies money can buy. Keep growing and stay curious! The tech will come.
6X Vol. 16 2022 - Modeling by Brittnee Campanella Photography by Kensi at Contagion Media Editorial Workshop
What has been the biggest challenge in your artistic journey?
In 2020, I began to lose the desire to draw. I had been sharing on Instagram for at least three years and was just about to graduate with my bachelor’s, yet I felt completely burnt out. Every opportunity I tried for slipped right through my fingers and I was frustrated yet so desperate to prove myself. Inspiration from songs and movies, which had always fueled my creativity, seemed to fade away. The joy I had in capturing small moments of my life through diary comics felt difficult and unfulfilling.
Drawing was the very thing I leaned on to get me through the ups and downs in life, but without warning, it became unfamiliar to me. For the next two years, I could not hold a pencil or my drawing tablet for more than five minutes. I hated everything I drew and I had run out of steam to bring myself to get back into the groove of it.
I still have not been able to get back into drawing but I am trying to be gentle with myself and to let the craft return to me on it's own. Navigating this has been a real challenge because I felt as if I lost my identity as an artist. It was not until I started photography that I began to feel myself again.
What is your favorite part about your art?
Boudoir holds a very special place in my heart. It is a really incredible feeling seeing people realize they were always beautiful. I love reminding people of that. Watching as they slowly grow more comfortable, more brave, more confident during our time together is really special.
Photography by Kensi Fearing. Modeling by Raven Vaelen @thatz0raven. Artells Magazine.
Boudoir is often given a bad rep because people apply a narrow worldview lens over it. It is much more than a "revealing session”. It is empowering and is about self-love, acceptance, and embracing one’s own beauty.
Are you a morning person or night person?
Definitely a morning person! I am more motivated during that time, as much as I love to sleep in, I ultimately do the best during the morning.
Who or what is your support system?
My husband, my best friend Alessandra, my family, and my growing community on Instagram are my support system. I have met a lot of artists and friends there that continue to support me!
What is the most powerful lesson you have learned from being an artist?
Let yourself rest. I am still learning this lesson but after going through a major burnout that still hovers over me, I have realized how important it is to take breaks. You do not craft strong ideas or receive inspiration when you are exhausted, and trying to force it only makes you more frustrated. As hard as it can be to take breaks in this demanding world, it is vital for an artist.
What can your fans expect from you in the near future?
They can expect a lot more creative concepts. I will be kicking off 2023 with an editorial photographer retreat and I cannot wait for all the fresh ideas and insight that I will be coming back with!
