Editor’s Note: Welcome to “Reel Women,” our annual tribute to dynamic women in creative industries. For the month of March, let us introduce you to some very special women like SixTWentySix’s director, Kate Adams.
Kate has seamlessly integrated the worlds of directing and photography to craft narratives that resonate profoundly with audiences worldwide. Transitioning from her roots in photography to the dynamic medium of film, Kate’s journey has been defined by a relentless pursuit of infusing emotion and meaning into her work, resulting in captivating storytelling that leaves a lasting impact.
Her academic journey at the University of Hawaii, where she pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in New Media, provided her with a robust foundation in visual storytelling. Delving into conceptual image-making, she laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in directing, empowering herself to translate her creative vision into compelling narratives on screen.
What truly distinguishes Kate is her remarkable ability to forge intimate connections with her subjects, immersing viewers in their world through a rich tapestry of images and words. Whether she’s behind the lens or directing on set, Kate’s calming presence and genuine approach foster an environment where talent feels empowered to showcase their authentic selves. The result is a body of work characterized by its rawness, honesty, and purity, capturing the essence of each individual or brand she collaborates with.
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Kate finds inspiration in the natural beauty of California’s scenic landscapes. Embracing the serenity of the outdoors, she channels the same sense of freedom and authenticity that defines her work, whether she’s riding horses or embracing the tranquility of the water.
Kate’s portfolio boasts an impressive array of global brands across various industries, including fashion, lifestyle, sports, and entertainment. With clients ranging from Adidas and Apple Music to BMW, Nike, and Vogue Magazine, she brings her unique perspective and creative vision to each project, leaving an indelible mark on every story she tells.
Let’s meet Kate!
What’s your origin story?
Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a “creative” or work in a creative profession. Early on I was taking art classes after school, learning to draw and sculpt. My parents were always supportive, encouraging me to explore my creative side.
I would have to say the most influential part of my “origin story” was that I got to attend The Archer School for Girls for middle and high school. Archer is big on encouraging young women to find their voice, explore the arts, challenge ideas, become leaders, and see the glass ceiling and “say watch me break it.” Sounds cliché, but it truly influenced me. I was extremely grateful for the opportunity because I received a full scholarship to attend. It’s unique to find a community where women are encouraged to do whatever the f*ck they want.
I hate that I have to say it is rare because it is so important. It showed me that we all deserve a seat at the table. I had some amazing teachers and peers who inspired me to be me, which at a young age is priceless. It’s a game changer to have the opportunity to be inspired to take risks and to be encouraged to try. I never questioned seeking a creative profession. I knew I didn’t know how exactly to do that, but I knew I would figure it out and I had to try.
Another turning point was when my dad got me a camera. I think I was around 10…It was a simple point and shoot. I was addicted. That sparked my interest in photography, which then led to my interest in filmmaking. In high school, I was watching surf films and docs; films from the Malloy Brothers, Step into Liquid by Dana Brown, and a doc about my hometown, Dogtown, and the Z-Boys by Stacey Peralta. I also had an incredible media teacher who showed my class the films, Do the Right Thing by Spike Lee, and Thelma & Louise by Ridley Scott. These films shook me.
I’ve always been drawn to the cinematic quality of feature films, but I was especially drawn to this alt-approach that felt DIY, avant-garde, a bit in your face, and made by people who didn’t fit into the classic square of the film industry. I started to see how artistic you could be with your approach using just a camera.
The docs, surf, and skate films inspired me because it was the first place I saw you didn’t have to be a full on “movie director” or go to film school to make something meaningful. This was a huge driving force for me to pursue image making.
How did you get into film?
After college, I took an old-school approach and assisted many photographers and directors to learn how they run their businesses, stay creative, pitch, and manage a crew and set. While I was assisting, I was also shooting for myself and building my reel. Saying “yes” to every project that came my way, because I wanted to get better at shooting.
I built a solid network and list of clientele which then allowed me to step into directing full-time. I pretty much took any job I could and worked my way up, I started packing G&E trucks on the night shift at Milk Studios, assisting and then shooting for myself. Each role I worked was extremely valuable in understanding what goes into a well-oiled shoot, I’m incredibly grateful for all the people who have recommended me, seen my hustle and given me a shot.
Who were your mentors?
Great question, I strongly believe in mentorship and feel incredibly lucky that I had a few mentors coming up. Though one stands out the most. One of my cold emails changed the trajectory for my career. Christin Rose’s photo project very moved me “She Plays We Win,” which celebrates girls in sports. So, I took a shot and emailed her.
Christin was an open book, and immediately took me under her wing. She brought me on to assist her and within a few years, I shot the motion component alongside her for the launch of the “She Plays We Win” national campaign with Under Armour.
Christin is a gem of a human being, she is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever witnessed. She answered any questions I had, how to negotiate, how to reach out to clients, what goes into building your portfolio. Christin pushed me creatively and inspired me on what it looks like to be a leader on set while being a compassionate and joyful person.
Christin’s She Plays We Win work:
https://shop.sheplayswewin.com/product/she-plays-we-win-the-book
https://www.instagram.com/sheplayswewin/?hl=en
What drives you to create?
Life, in general, drives me to create, maybe I’m thinking too simple, but being human inspires me. Joy and kindness inspire me. Nature inspires me. My horse inspires me, my partner inspires me. My friends, and people I meet inspire me.
Throughout my work, I’ve done a lot of projects that involve personal “real people”. Connecting with people has always been a big part of the inspiration for my work, hearing directly from the source. I love to learn about the complexities of how someone got to where they are, and what they enjoy or what makes them happy.
Humans are badass, we overcome a lot and do cool shit, I love learning about what makes people tick. The more people can connect to that, the more people can connect; it is ultimately what helps us all heal and get along. Maybe I’m getting too spiritual but to me it’s all related.
But for real – I am inspired by everything. I think the human experience inspires me. I think within my work, I always want there to be life in it. Curiosity, and playfulness.
Coffee, Lunch or Happy Hour
Coffee – Reed Morano
Lunch – Celine Sciamma
Happy Hour – Megan Rapinoe
Favorite movie and TV show of 2023.
Poor Things by Yorgos Lanthimas and FX’s The Bear, Season 2.
Band or singer you would ditch your career and go perform with:
Honestly, I would never ditch my career. Although I was greatly inspired by Annie Leibovitz’s early work touring with the Rolling Stones for Rolling Stone magazine.
What’s your theme song for 2024?
I’m a sucker for music that makes you wanna move. So right now, I love pumping myself up with Back on 74 by Jungle and 4EVA by KAYTRAMINÉ, AMINÉ, KAYTRANADA, Pharrell.
To see who else is a Reel Woman, click here.
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