Today we’d like to introduce you to Sydney Hickey.
Sydney, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Growing up in Southern California, I was constantly surrounded by beauty and inspiration. For as long as I can remember, I have always had a heightened sense of detail and saw things differently.
When I was 10 years old, I received by first digital camera for my birthday. I fell in love with capturing candid moments throughout my life. During the rise of social media, I started sharing my photos on instagram and Tumblr. I quickly gained a following and attention on these platforms by simply sharing my life in photos.
After taking a break from this passion to focus on my education and earning a degree, I found myself wondering why I ever stopped the thing that brought me the most joy as a teenager. I worked several jobs after college that were on my “path” and “using my degree”, which is when I found myself unhappy and unfulfilled. I knew it was time to make a change when I had completely lost myself and sight of what brought me contentment. I had an awareness of my destiny but was unsure of how to get there. After years of denying my life’s true direction and letting fear dictate my decisions, I decided to pick up my camera and start creating again.
I started Sydney’s Eye in August of 2023 (still in disbelief that it hasn’t even been a year). What began as just me and my camera has exponentially grown into an agency where I offer an array of creative services. If it wasn’t for the community I have created in San Diego over the last 3 years, I would not have taken the leap to start my own business. I am eternally grateful for all of the support and cannot wait to give back to the people who have helped me grow.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Often times a creative person is highly sensitive. My art is an extension of myself which is extremely vulnerable to share. For a long time, I was afraid of judgement (and I still am). But as I have gotten older I’ve realized the importance of sharing your story because you never know who you will impact and inspire.
Something that has been a hard adjustment for me is learning to show up for myself daily. As a business owner, you are pretty much dedicating 24 hours day, 7 days a week to your work and your clients. Especially as a team of one (for now), I feel the need to be on or available all the time. I learned the hard way if I don’t show up for myself first, I won’t show up as the best version of myself for others. Creating a morning routine with a list of non-negotiables for myself has been a huge help.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a photographer, but in 2024 that means I wear many hats. I have adapted to becoming a content creator, social media manager, short-form video creator and marketing strategist – all of which I really enjoy doing!
I specialize in portrait and lifestyle photography; I love working with people and getting to connect with someone on such an intimate level. I find joy in everything that goes into a photoshoot; the planning process, creative direction, styling, lighting, location scouting… the list goes on.
Over the years I have dipped my toes into product & event photography as well. I have had the opportunity to travel and work with some incredible brands, many of which I have dreamed of working with forever.
My favorite part about my job is getting to connect with individuals and make them feel empowered. Being in front of the lens is intimidating for most, but I feel so grateful to help others create art and gain confidence at the same time.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I owe a lot of credit to my parents and the way they raised me. As artists themselves, I grew up surrounded by different works of art; my Mom’s ceramics were what we ate off of, my Dad would show us old movies and music that inspired him, and we would visit all of the local galleries and exhibits in our area. On the weekends or after school, it was mostly always creative time, no TV or video games. My mom would bring out the art supplies and my brother and I would paint, draw, collage or do pottery. Nothing was off limits when it came to doing art with my mom – she made it a point to teach us that our creative ideas had no boundaries and anything was possible. She still has our creations from decades ago hanging on the walls of my childhood home.
I also owe a huge amount of credit to the creative community in San Diego. Something I love so much about the people here is I rarely get a competitive vibe from anyone. We all have our own unique styles and art forms we are pursuing and everyone wants to help each other achieve success.
I have to give recognition to my friend Jordan Woodley, another photographer and mixed media artist in San Diego. After meeting her for the first time last year, she inspired me to pick up my camera and start creating again.
Another special shoutout to one of my now closest friends, Natalie Borton, owner of Late August Studio. She motivated me to take the leap, quit my corporate job, and go all in on my business earlier this year. It was the best decision I ever made, and I couldn’t have done it without her guidance and support.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @sydneys.eye and @sydneyleannee
Image Credits
Natalie Borton (Featured photo)
