We had the good fortune of connecting with Daniel Tyrone Riddick and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daniel Tyrone, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a creative career as a photographer for two reasons. The first was that I had already had careers in corporate accounting and as a military officer. These positions insisted that I follow the leadership of others or had to provide leadership. As a photographer, it gives me the freedom to imagine a space and time that I can control and my clients can appreciate. The second was that I constantly surrounded myself with positive people that encouraged me to follow my dreams and instincts. Because of this I was encouraged to not limit myself with my artistry.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is known as Daniel Tyrone Photography. I believe what sets me apart is that my broad range of genres and ability to know what I want but also the willingness to incorporate my client’s vision as well. The reason I evolved into a professional photographer was my attentiveness in the classroom and my persistent work ethic. I never tried to compare myself to other photographers just realized I could learn from them and to praise them when I liked their work. My work with models is one of my best attributes; because I am an introvert, I have to work harder at establishing a connection something I call photographic chemistry. My path was not easy but challenging. Recognizing early that I did not have a camera, much less know how to use it, and also realizing I did not understand the technical aspect of photography was my biggest challenge. My biggest lessons I learned was to stay positive accept critique (good and bad). I would encourage people to acknowledge my quote: Photography is my vision for what the world is saying to me; and my gift is sharing it with you.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The first place I would take them is to the city of Galveston (since I live 20 minutes away) and we would take the ferry to the Bolivar Peninsula then cap off the rest of the day walking along Seawall Boulevard and eating at Gaidos Seafood Restaurant. Next up is the visiting downtown at Museum District, exploring subjects ranging from natural science to the African-American experience. Afterwards we could have drinks at Federal American Grill. The best thing probably on the itinerary would be to take a ride in a biplane with Texas Biplane which is owned by a friend of mine Karl. Karl retired from the U.S. Airforce as an F-16 instructor.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In deciding to be a photographer, I had to find a way to become one. I knew that I did not want to go back to school. This made me research how to become a professional photographer. I discovered a professional photographer in Houston named Lana Kelley. She is the lead instructor of EveryDayPhotoClass. Lana is a native Houstonian educated in the science and art of photography at The School of Visual Arts in New York City. She has led photography seminars throughout Texas and trained industry professionals in the science of photography for over 15 years. I have taken all classes and most workshops she offers and she also asked me to photo shoot her wedding.

Website: www.danieltyronephotography.com

Instagram: @danieltyronephotography

Facebook: @danieltyronephotography

Youtube: My Life Uncut

Image Credits
The Lady of the Lake – (model) Angelica Summer Worley

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