Behind every striking photograph is a creative mind with a unique vision, and Bay Area photographer Abigail Sylvester knows how to bring that vision to life. With a passion for capturing personality, emotion, and bold artistic expression, Abigail approaches photography as more than just taking pictures—it’s about creating images that tell a story.
I had the privilege of interviewing Abigail to learn more about her journey, from her early fascination with cameras to the creative concepts that continue to inspire her work today. Born in Trinidad and raised on the Peninsula, Abigail has developed her own artistic perspective through years of exploration and experimentation. Her collaborations with West Coast Leather have brought our designs to life through her lens, capturing the individuality, attitude, and distinctive character that define our fashion.
Here are the questions:
Where are you from, and how long have you been in the Bay Area?
I was born in Trinidad and have been in the Bay Area for approximately 21–22 years. I grew up on the Peninsula, which is where I spent much of my childhood.
How did you first get into photography, and what made you want to pursue it professionally?
My interest in photography started when I was young. My family always had cameras around the house, and people were constantly taking pictures. I quickly became fascinated by the camera and the ability to capture moments through photography.
It really clicked for me in middle school at Sacred Heart, when I realized photography was something I wanted to pursue. By high school, I had invested in my first camera and began taking my passion more seriously, working toward turning it into a career.
What is the coolest photoshoot you’ve ever done?
Honestly, all of my photoshoots are cool, so it’s almost impossible to choose just one! However, one of my favorites was a water shoot where my male models and I were in the water during a beautiful sunset. I’ve always had a deep love for the water, so that shoot felt especially personal to me. It was a beautiful experience, and the atmosphere made it even more memorable.
Another shoot I loved involved models burning newspapers. The images turned out incredibly cool, and it was such a unique creative concept. I would love to revisit that idea someday, with the proper safety precautions in place.
What has your experience been like working with West Coast Leather and the team?
It’s been a great experience working with West Coast Leather. The first time I worked with the team was at a Sinners and Forgivers event with designer Josh. That’s where I met Skip Pas and Joe Crane. I had the opportunity to see their work firsthand, and I immediately loved what they were doing.
The second time I worked with West Coast Leather, I was invited to another event by designer Amethyst. It’s been great connecting with the team and experiencing the creativity and individuality behind the brand.
