We had the good fortune of connecting with Cole Plichta and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cole, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Nothing good comes without risk. That goes for dreams, love, and impact. There’s always risk. For me, I risked my time, finances, and energy to be able to do what I love.

I’ve found that to be a photographer in the music industry, you have to be able to network, and to be able to network you need to be able to talk to people behind closed doors. The only way you get behind those closed doors is through social charisma, dedication to your craft, and a high risk tolerance.

Now, that’s not to say that the art doesn’t matter. It does, and it’s what keeps you relevant behind those “closed doors”, but inserting yourself into competitive industries requires taking a lot of different risks.

The only thing I don’t risk is friendship. None of this matters without relationships. Don’t use people. That’s wrong. Rather, I find it much better to invest in people, get to know their story, and see where things go. Networking doesn’t have to be shady, and a big goal of mine is to help people reshape how they view the topic, so that they can take risks to make the life and business they want the world to experience.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart is experience, professionalism, and unique style that my clients get from a Nashville artist. From the first interaction I have with my clients I meet them where they’re at, and provide all the information that helps paint a picture of if I’m the right fit to help them. Even if that means they end up not working with me. It’s more important to me that someone gets what they need, and not just what they want.

If a client is the right fit, I make sure to describe a plan of what we are going to do. Typically those looking for the “LA-look” gravitate toward my work and find themselves satisfied with the style variance in comparison to the other photo styles in Nashville.

The journey was never easy. Still isn’t, but it’s 100% worth it to me and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. The opportunities I’ve been able to partake in have taken me places I’d always dreamed of.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I was showing a friend Nashville, I would take them downtown, but not just to broadway. I’d want to give them a unique look in to some of the underground music scene here that goes past country music.

I’d most likely take them to one of my favorite venues. My personal favorites are The Basement East and Marathon Music Works. In terms of staff, experience curation, and vibe they are the best in Nashville.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not be where I’m at without the help of my mentors, clients, and friends. A lot of my inspiration and advice has come from my dear friend Jeremy Cowart. Very thankful for our relationship and the impact he’s encouraged myself and many others to make in this industry.

Website: https://www.clickta.art/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clicktaofficial/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coleplichta/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.