Alex Qian's Photo Editing Setup
One of the reasons we love working in this space is so that we can see exactly how our products and features benefit you. It’s one of our favorite things to hear back from our customers on how our pieces have helped them create their ideal workspace and learn what we can do to even further support their work.
We recently had the opportunity to speak with Alex Qian about his workspace and how his environment has been curated just for him. Since this particular customer is a creator himself with a minimalist mindset, we were able to ask a handful of questions that gave us insight into his creative process, what works best for him, and why he loves using Artifox products.
Q: Tell us a little about your creative process.
Alex: “My creative journey stems from a history of spontaneous adventure travel which also introduced me to photography. Now that life has gotten a little more "real" and I've grown out of traveling out of a backpack on a whim, I feed that inner adventurous side by allowing for spontaneous moments to occur while planning and writing out my concepts and ideas meticulously so that I create with intent, but know that the best moments will come from improvising on the fly.”
While life can occasionally occur on a whim and some of the best memories are improvised, it’s important to have those moments of planning. Even moreso, it’s important to create a space where you feel you can make your best plans and feel your most productive.
Q: What are 3 tips you recommend for productivity when editing in your studio?
Alex: “1). Create an environment you love to be in, contrary to the adventures and cool images people see, most of my time is spent at a computer staring at a screen, editing, getting inspiration, procrastinating.. .the more that you prioritize making your workspace yours, the less you will want to escape from it. This new Artifox setup definitely fits the bill as a major upgrade from my previous setup!
2). Investing in your technology, computers, storage, monitors, even the right keyboard and mouse all serve as things that if they don't work right they can be a major frustration and get in the way of the creative process. Get the right tools, worry less.
3). Allow time for "nothing". I think creativity is one of those things that you can't just sit down at a desk and tell yourself… "time to be creative now". Artists need time and space mentally to empty their mind, which surprisingly lets random ideas and thoughts start flowing which can then lead to a more productive use of time.”
Alex lets us know what is most important to him when it comes to productivity. Investing in quality products, curating your ideal space, and allowing yourself time and energy to let the creativity come to you are all great pieces of advice and helpful ways to find the most productive you.
Q: What are your thoughts on the importance of a clean work space?
Alex: “Growing up as a gamer kid I have to admit that cleanliness wasn't as much of a priority when I was younger. Nowadays, I feel out of control and chaotic if my workspace isn't tidy and well maintained, which only serves as a distraction if I'm trying to get into a productive flow. Adding plants, my fish tank, quality furniture, and some tasteful lighting can really transform a space like it did to mine.”
The Artifox team wholeheartedly agrees with Alex that a clean and tidy workspace allows for a more focused, calm, and ready to work mindset.
Q: What is your favorite feature of the Artifox Table and why?
Alex: “The Artifox Table has SO much room. It makes me feel like what I can do at my workspace is limitless rather than limiting as I felt with my previous cramped desktop and living space. It is intelligently designed and all the cable management solutions were sorely needed for the sheer amount of tech and gadgets I have going on currently. The material feels sturdy and very high quality as well.”
We absolutely love hearing about all of Alex’s favorite features of our Table. Our mission is to design quality pieces that give you the opportunity to create your perfect environment. Whether it be for work, leisure, or anything in between, we are always searching for new ways to help and support you.