Mindy A. Collins Interview Published on: 20, Nov 2018
Where have you spent most of your childhood? As a child, did you ever dream of becoming a writer?
I grew up in a small town in New Jersey. My dream was so be some kind of an artist.
What inspired you to switch from being an interior designer to an author? What role did your husband play in this journey?I’m still a designer. I started out as a graphic designer, then an interior designer. My book is really a continued expression of my design.
My husband was very supportive of this project, especially since he is an author and illustrator of his own books. He helped me with the technical set-up of my book.
Why did you choose to write general non-fiction? Do you and your husband share book ideas? Has your husband read your first book?My book is a creation in design where I’ve put together my own photos with inspiring quotes. This was completely my idea and my husband loves my book.
What do you enjoy the most about being a graphic designer? What attracts you towards all things positively vibrant?I have a really good sense of layout and balance in design, I also love working with color. These innate senses help me with my design, both graphic and interior.
All great things have a higher energetic frequency. “Love” being the highest vibration. I continue to strive for the highest vibration in my life. I believe that’s our purpose.
From where did you come with the idea for "The Doors of Florence: A Photographic Journey?" What has been your best travel experience?One of my best travel experiences has been the trip I took with my family to Italy. I was blown away by the amazing doors in Florence and was moved to photograph them during my visit. It wasn’t until I got back to the States that the book idea came to me. My goal is to always be aware and to help people, so I thought the inspiring quotes would be a great addition to the beautiful photos that I took. I also wanted to share the beauty of these doors with everyone.
What was the most magical thing about the countless doors and entrances that you encountered on your journey? You must have taken a large number of pictures, how did you decide which one to include in your book?The different designs, colors, sizes, and the age of the doors were beyond magical to me. I was in awe seeing and experiencing them.
I used most of my door photos because each one was so unique. The process of laying out the book and pairing the quotes with each photo was an intuitive experience.
In the process of releasing your first book, what did you enjoy doing the most- clicking pictures or collecting universal inspirational quotes? Why?The entire project was so enjoyable, but the experience of taking the pictures in an amazing country was truly an incredible experience. My hope was to transfer my amazing experience through the creation of my book.
Which is your personal favorite photo in the book? Which photo got the most compliments from your readers, friends and family?I can’t pick just one favorite photo. I have a few favorites for different reasons.
Which is the one inspirational quote you live by? According to you, what is the one thing to keep in mind while clicking photos?I do my best to live by all of the inspirational quotes I put into my book. The two quotes by Rumi are so powerful to me.
I believe the composition is of utmost importance in photography.
How difficult it was to chronicle your journey with photos of the beautiful doors found on many homes and businesses? What did you aim to reflect through these photos?This process was not difficult at all, only time consuming. It was as if the creation of this book just flowed through me.
My goal was to reflect the beauty, power, character, and history of each door.
What inspired the title of the book "The Doors of Florence: A Photographic Journey?" What is its significance?I think the title speaks for itself.
What has been your biggest motivation while writing a book? How did your family react to your first book?This is my first book and my hope is that people visually enjoy it as well as being uplifted with the inspiring quotes.
My family, and friends, tell me they love it. I’ve had people tell me they bought several copies to give a gifts. That’s one beautiful compliment!
What do you enjoy being the most- an interior designer, a photographer or a writer? How do you think your first book has influenced your life?I enjoy all great design. I love being an interior designer because I use my skills to help people make their homes a beautiful place to live.
I believe creating this book has helped me to know that anything is possible. If you’re moved to create, don’t hold back!
What more types of books do you wish to write? What are you currently working on?I have an idea for another similar book.
