Erica Ross shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Erica, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day look like waking up at 4:00 am, lighting my favorite candle, and drinking some water to stay hydrated. Then, I read a Bible scripture, followed by journaling. After that, I have breakfast, freshen up, and get dressed to hit the gym.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a photographer and creative. I’ve been practicing photography for about eight years now. The main focuses of my work have been portraits, lifestyle photography, and professional headshots, but over the past two years, I have shifted towards more creative and abstract photography.
Since 2024, I have also been dedicated to sharing the resources and experiences I’ve gained throughout my creative journey through my project, Agent of Change Culture. It has allowed me to explore the wellness and community aspects of art and creativity, which I blend with “Moodscapes” by Erica’s View Photography.
Moodscapes is a collection of solo escapes and guides designed for good-vibe-seekers. The goal is to highlight sources of comfort, beauty, and fun for “lone wolves” and those navigating the transitional phases of life.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed I was “nice” and “smart” because I was compliant. I followed directions and memorized things easily. While I still consider myself kind and intelligent, I’ve redefined what those words mean to me as an adult. I practice kindness because it’s important, but I also do it more when I receive that energy in return, rather than to “keep the peace.”
I’m also learning the true cost of hard work and success. I’ve come to realize that nothing worthwhile comes easy and that everyone must exercise discipline to achieve their goals. I’m still a work in progress, and I occasionally regress, but my overall belief system continues to shift for the best.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me that no one is coming to save any of us. We must ultimately save ourselves, but there is healing and help if you have the right community around you. With that being said, I’ve also learned that success does not make people like you. People will want to utilize your gifts, but genuinely liking you isn’t a guarantee. And when it comes down to suffering, you need to have people in your life who can “suffer well.” Meaning, we go through it together, hold each other accountable, get through it together, and come out on the other side.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to my new Moodscapes project. It developed during a very vulnerable time in my life, and I think anyone, but especially black women, who’ve felt “weird,” “out of place,” “unsure,” “too sensitive,” or even regretful can benefit from this project. I want people to know that they can find solace within themselves and that they should seek it first. The quality of every other relationship in our lives is influenced by the relationship we have with ourselves. Even if you lead a fulfilling life, surrounded by friends and loved ones, it still doesn’t hurt to cultivate solo moments for yourself. We all need to check in with ourselves.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
For a long time, I believed that success alone would make me happy. The thought of making my family proud and sharing my accomplishments inspired me throughout my school career and into my mid-20s. However, as I approached the end of my 20s, I realized that most people don’t care about your achievements unless they benefit from them in some way, especially if it seems like you are doing better than they are. More importantly, I learned that nothing is more valuable than having people around you who love and accept you for who you are—people who make you feel emotionally safe—and having your basic needs met in life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/moodscapes.by.erica
Image Credits
J.D. Ross IV (personal photo)
